Researchers have discovered that the same beneficial bacteria occur in pollen stores of honeybee colonies and on nearby plants, producing compounds that kill pathogens of bees and plants. These endophytes can be used to develop new treatments for crops and hives.
A clinical trial has begun to assess the safety and acceptability of a novel rectal HIV microbicide douche containing tenofovir for pre-exposure prophylaxis. The study aims to provide an 'on-demand' HIV prevention method for eligible individuals who engage in receptive anal intercourse.
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.
Mithila Jugulam has been appointed Co-Editor-in-Chief of Pest Management Science, bringing expertise in weed physiology and molecular biology. She aims to foster interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation, while maintaining the journal's commitment to scientific rigor and editorial integrity.
A new study found that removing hedgerows and field margins decreases the diversity and abundance of arthropods, which can lead to reduced natural pest control. The research suggests that using flowering plants in field margins and implementing agri-environmental measures can be effective ways to increase farmland biodiversity.
Researchers developed new spiro-pyrazolo quinazoline derivatives with reduced bee toxicity without compromising insecticidal activity. The compounds showed promising results, including one compound with an LD50 value three to four orders of magnitude lower than fipronil.
A recent study by Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University provides a method to help farmers and policymakers decide whether organic farming is beneficial for the environment. The researchers analyzed international studies to find a threshold where organic farming's biodiversity gain outweighs its land requirements.
Researchers have developed a new silver-ion releasing coating that effectively prevents bacteria from adhering to implants and killing them. The coating, dubbed "SAFE", was tested on rats and showed promising results, with no signs of toxicity or wear and tear.
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.
A 90-day dapivirine ring has passed its first test in a Phase I study, showing promising results for long-acting HIV prevention in cisgender women. The ring achieved higher dapivirine concentrations in blood plasma and vaginal fluid compared to the monthly dapivirine ring, suggesting potential for sustained protection.
The DESIRE study found that efficacy was the strongest determinant of participants' stated modality choice, followed by delivery method and side effects. Participants preferred a douche used 30 minutes before sex with 95% efficacy, offering three to five days of protection.
Researchers developed a drug candidate that can reverse mucosal barrier damage caused by HIV. The recombinant molecule rfhSP-D prevented HIV transmission and restored vaginal tissue integrity. This finding presents a promising approach to creating a safe and effective topical anti-HIV microbicide.
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.
The Microbicide Trials Network is conducting a study to assess the acceptability, tolerability, and adherence of three rectal delivery methods: placebo inserts, suppositories, and douches. The study aims to understand individual preferences for HIV prevention products.
The nonprofit International Partnership for Microbiddles (IPM) will receive a competitive award of up to $25 million from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to advance HIV prevention microbicide products for women. The award supports IPM's monthly dapivirine vaginal ring, which has shown promising results in...
The International Partnership for Microbicides (IPM) has received a four-year, £12 million UK government award to develop and commercialize new HIV prevention products for women. IPM's dapivirine vaginal ring, approved in two large clinical trials, will receive regulatory support.
Participants were highly adherent to using the gel before and after sex (93%) as they were to taking daily oral Truvada (94%). The study found that most participants used the gel 80% of the time or more, suggesting a potential alternative for HIV prevention.
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.
A reduced glycerin formulation of tenofovir gel was found safe when used daily and around the time of sex for HIV prevention. Participants were as likely to follow through using the gel with sex as they were taking daily oral PrEP, demonstrating its potential as a rectal microbicide for people at risk of HIV from anal sex.
The Population Council's MZC microbicide gel has demonstrated strong efficacy against HIV, HSV-2, and HPV in a preclinical study, outperforming TFV 1% gel in some cases. The gel contains a potent antiretroviral compound and carrageenan, which provides enhanced anti-HPV properties.
A study conducted in Peru suggests that rectal microbicides delivered as enemas or douches could be a promising tool to prevent HIV among men who have sex with men and transwomen. The researchers found that 18% of participants reported rectal douching, primarily for hygiene and pleasure.
A new study reveals that microbicides targeting HIV are less effective when exposed to semen due to its amyloid fibrils, which enhance the virus's infectiousness. Researchers suggest creating a compound targeting both the virus and these protein aggregates to improve drug efficacy.
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.
A new microbicide gel has been found to prevent the transmission of HIV, herpes simplex virus 2 (HSV-2), and human papillomavirus (HPV) in animal studies. The gel, MZC, contains two potent antiviral agents that are effective against multiple strains of HIV and have a window of efficacy of at least eight hours prior to exposure.
A Phase I study of a combination ARV vaginal ring found the ring safe and effective in preventing HIV infection, with dapivirine showing promising results. However, maraviroc, the first entry inhibitor tested as a microbicide, was not as effective and requires further development.
The Population Council is developing a non-antiretroviral HIV microbicide to prevent HIV and other STIs, particularly for women in sub-Saharan Africa. The project aims to create safe, effective, and acceptable products with the potential to deliver an additional prevention option globally.
A reformulated version of an anti-HIV gel developed for vaginal use was found safe and acceptable by HIV-negative men and women who used it rectally. The study tested a reduced glycerin formulation of tenofovir gel, which showed promise as a microbicide for preventing or reducing the sexual transmission of HIV from unprotected anal sex.
A new study demonstrates that a vaginal microbicide gel is highly effective in blocking HIV infection in non-human primate models. The gel, containing engineered peptides, prevents the virus from entering and infecting cells, offering a promising strategy for prevention and protection against HIV transmission.
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.
A vaginal ring releasing an anti-HIV drug has been shown to prevent the transmission of SHIV in macaques, providing strong potential for its success in women. The study found that the rings provided highly significant protection when inserted 2 weeks or 24 hours before virus exposure.
Researchers examined how vaginal gel formulation affects user experience, finding specific sensations and experiences reported by women. This information can help develop better microbicides that women will use consistently, reducing the impact of HIV on vulnerable populations.
Researchers from the Microbicide Trials Network reported two new findings from HPTN 035 data, presenting contradictory results to previous studies on hormonal contraception and HIV risk. The analysis of nearly 3,000 women found no association between hormonal contraceptive use and increased risk of HIV infection.
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.
The conference presents promising results from anti-retroviral based microbicides and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) with potential to end the AIDS epidemic. Key findings highlight the need for diverse approaches, adherence, risk perception, and delivery of PrEP options to high-risk populations.
African-led initiative calls for increased research and advocacy on rectal microbicides to address the growing issue of unprotected anal intercourse in Africa, which is 10-20 times more likely to result in HIV infection than unprotected vaginal intercourse.
A Phase I clinical study has confirmed that a new rectal formulation of tenofovir gel is safe and well-tolerated when used daily for one week. The gel, designed to reduce glycerin levels, showed promise in preventing HIV transmission from anal sex, with high adherence rates among participants.
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.
A new vaginal ring combining dapivirine and maraviroc is being evaluated for its safety and effectiveness as an HIV microbicide. The study, MTN-013/IPM 026, aims to assess the ring's ability to prevent HIV infection in women through vaginal sex.
A new study found that a topical gel formulation of tenofovir significantly reduces HIV-1 transmission while also protecting against herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection. The researchers discovered that the drug's effectiveness against HSV was due to its ability to inhibit an enzyme needed for viral replication.
Researchers developed CD4 aptamer-siRNA chimeras that inhibit HIV infection in primary cells and humanized mice. These agents protect against vaginal transmission of HIV when applied vaginally to humanized mice.
Researchers have developed new rectal-specific lubricants that can help protect against HIV and other STIs when used with condoms. These lubricants, which combine microbicidal properties with condom use, are currently being tested in clinical trials.
A study found that tenofovir gel provided significant protection against HIV in rectal tissue, with a strong effect seen after one week of use. The results suggest that rectal microbicides could be an effective method for preventing HIV transmission, particularly in high-risk populations.
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.
A multinational trial found that taking an antiretroviral tablet daily can prevent HIV in gay men, with a 43.8% reduction in new infections compared to a placebo. Regular adherence and monitoring are crucial for this strategy to work.
Researchers testing tenofovir gel's rectal safety in a new trial led by the NIH-funded Microbicide Trials Network. The study aims to determine if rectal use of tenofovir gel is safe and effective in preventing HIV transmission among men and women who engage in receptive anal intercourse.
The world's third rectal microbicide trial has been launched in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to test the safety and acceptability of tenofovir gel. The study aims to determine if rectal use of the gel reduces the risk of HIV among men and women who engage in receptive anal intercourse.
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.
A new material, a potential ingredient for microbicides, dramatically lowers HIV infection rates by targeting the mediator between the virus and cells. The coating molecule blocks SEVI's interactions with both the virus and immune cells, preventing at least one way for HIV to attach.
A vaginal gel containing 1% tenofovir has been shown to significantly reduce a woman's risk of HIV infection and genital herpes. The study found that the gel was 39% effective in reducing HIV risk during vaginal intercourse, increasing to 54% for women using the gel in over 80% of their sex acts.
The CAPRISA 004 microbicide study has shown that an antiretroviral drug can be formulated into a vaginal gel protecting women against HIV infection. This finding is crucial for empowering at-risk populations with a safe and effective prevention tool, marking a significant milestone in HIV prevention.
Dr. Henry Gabelnick was awarded the lifetime achievement award at the 6th International Microbicides Conference for his dedication to developing microbicides. He has contributed significantly to the field through research on preclinical algorithms and primate models.
New research from the Microbicide Trials Network indicates that some lubricants have toxic effects on cells and rectal tissue. The study's findings support IRMA's calls for safer lubricant options, emphasizing the importance of condom use with compatible lubricants to prevent HIV transmission.
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.
Charles Shagi, a community educator from Tanzania, received the second Omololu Falobi Award for Excellence in HIV Prevention Research Community Advocacy. His work empowers women and their communities to advocate for themselves and become partners in HIV prevention research trials.
International Rectal Microbicide Advocates releases a comprehensive report outlining the growing field of rectal microbicide R&D, highlighting optimism among researchers and advocates. The organization calls for increased funding and diversity in the funding portfolio to support safe and effective rectal-specific products.
Researchers aim to create a microbicide-releasing vaginal ring that protects women for weeks, targeting HIV infection at two different steps in its life cycle.
Researchers developed a lab test to predict HIV microbicide safety, identifying why some 'safe' microbicides increased HIV transmission. The test detects disruptions in the vaginal epithelial barrier, which can facilitate HIV infection.
Scientists have created a new protein-based microbicide that can kill HIV when used as a preventative measure. The innovation involves combining two existing proteins into a single molecule, which is then produced in large quantities using plant cells.
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.
A clinical trial involving over 3,000 women found a vaginal microbicide gel to be 30% effective in preventing HIV infection in women. The study, known as HPTN 035, demonstrated promise for an HIV prevention method that women can initiate.
A recent clinical trial found that the investigational vaginal gel PRO 2000 showed encouraging signs of success, with a 30% effectiveness rate in preventing HIV infection. The Phase II/IIb trial enrolled over 3,000 women and tested two candidate microbicides, one of which boosted the natural acidity of the vagina to inactivate pathogens.
A study by researchers at Albert Einstein College of Medicine found a topical microbicide using RNA interference to protect against genital herpes infection for up to a week. The microbicide combines two siRNAs to offer both immediate and sustained protection, providing hope for a cost-effective therapy in developing countries.
New UCLA study suggests that vaginal microbicides, currently being developed for women, might be more effective in preventing HIV infections in men. The study found that if the efficacy of these microbicides is less than 50% and adherence is less than 60%, they could prevent up to 21% of HIV infections in men.
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.
A clinical trial is investigating the safety of a vaginal microbicide gel for pregnant women and their babies. The study aims to understand how pregnancy affects the body's absorption of the active drug and whether it can be transferred to the fetus.
Researchers at The Miriam Hospital and Brown University developed a new tool, the 'Willingness to Use Microbicides' scale, to measure women's willingness to use microbicides. Women with past experience using protective methods and casual sexual partners were more willing to use microbicides compared to their peers.
The Omololu Falobi Award honors advocates for their work in community advocacy and international leadership in HIV prevention research. Srikrishnan Aylur Kailasam was recognized for his role in working with marginalized communities, while Lori Heise received the award for her leadership in microbicide research as a partner.
A Phase II study has shown that tenofovir gel is safe for daily use and most women adhere to the regimen, suggesting a potential new approach to preventing HIV transmission. The findings are significant for women who are at high risk of infection due to heterosexual intercourse.
CONRAD has received a $28.5 million grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to develop microbicides for HIV prevention, supporting combination microbicide research and testing of novel candidates.
Meta Quest 3 512GB
Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.
A new vaginal microbicide, VivaGel, is being tested in a clinical safety trial among sexually active young women to determine its safety and acceptability. The study aims to assess the product's effectiveness in preventing HIV transmission and gather information on user experience.
Researchers will study anal intercourse, rectal microbicides, and social networks to better understand HIV transmission. The findings will contribute to the development of prevention technologies that can be used by those engaging in anal intercourse.
Researchers at the University of Utah have developed a new vaginal gel that turns into a gel-like coating when inserted, releasing an antiviral drug when exposed to semen. The 'molecular condom' has potential as a daily or monthly prevention method for AIDS, with hopes of being up to 90% effective.
GoPro HERO13 Black
GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.
The National Institutes of Health has awarded a $4.5-million supplemental grant to UCLA's Center for HIV Prevention and Research to develop microbicides combatting HIV transmission. This funding will support collaborative work with Johns Hopkins University, University of Pittsburgh, and CONRAD.