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Researchers outline need for new approach to COVID-19 vaccine testing

Researchers at Rutgers University propose a new approach to COVID-19 vaccine testing by combining conventional and challenge trials. This parallel approach, called Combining Conventional and Challenge trials (CCC), aims to facilitate faster and more accurate vaccine assessment and more effective pandemic response.

SourceRutgers University·JournalPharmacoepidemiology and Drug Safety·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateApr 12, 2022

Hard to change minds when it comes to vaccine willingness

A recent study found that most older adults in Canada are willing to receive a COVID-19 vaccine, with only a small percentage expressing hesitation. Factors such as safety concerns and previous flu shot history played a significant role in determining willingness.

SourceMcGill University·JournalAmerican Journal of Epidemiology·DateApr 12, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Study boosts support for single-dose HPV vaccine regimen

A randomized controlled trial of 2,275 women in Kenya found a single dose of the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine to be highly effective. The study results support the adoption of a single-dose HPV vaccination, which could increase accessibility in low- and middle-income countries.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalNEJM Evidence·DateApr 11, 2022
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.

Innovative technology will use smart sensors to ensure vaccine safety

Researchers developed innovative smart sensors to test new vaccines, revealing significant discrepancies between subjective self-reports and objective measurements. The study found that side effects escalate over the first 48 hours and then stabilize, with parameters returning to pre-vaccination levels.

SourceTel-Aviv University·JournalCommunications Medicine·DateApr 10, 2022

Dunedin Study sheds light on New Zealand’s successful vaccination rates

A new study using 50 years of data from the University of Otago's Dunedin Multidisciplinary Health & Development Study found that vaccine resistance is linked to adverse childhood experiences. The research suggests that individuals who develop a history of mistrust during childhood are more likely to become resistant to vaccinations.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalPNAS Nexus·TypeSurvey·DateApr 7, 2022
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.

Deciphering insect-borne viruses

Scientists are working on understanding the interplay between flaviviruses and mitochondria in hopes of finding new treatment options. By deciphering this process, researchers may be able to find broad-spectrum therapeutic targets for diseases like Zika, dengue, and West Nile.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·DateApr 7, 2022

For vaccine text-message campaigns, Brown researchers confirm success is all about timing

A new study from Brown University's Policy Lab found that text-message vaccination campaigns work better when sent early, as all state residents ages 16 and up had been eligible for a shot four weeks before the campaign. Despite this, the messages' ineffectiveness was due to poor timing rather than the content.

SourceBrown University·JournalNature·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateApr 6, 2022
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Vaccine resistance comes from childhood legacy of mistrust

A new study reveals that people who are resistant to vaccines often had adverse childhood experiences, including abuse and neglect. These early traumas can lead to a legacy of mistrust, causing individuals to view institutions and authority figures with skepticism.

SourceDuke University·JournalPNAS Nexus·TypeSurvey·DateApr 4, 2022

Study: Vaccine protects most cancer patients from COVID, but risk remains higher for patients with blood cancers

A study using the nation's largest COVID-19 data resource found that the vaccine protects most cancer patients from getting COVID, but those with certain types of cancer have a higher risk of breakthrough infections. The research also highlights the importance of continued vaccination efforts to protect cancer patients.

SourceIndiana University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateApr 4, 2022
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

COVID-19 vaccine not associated with birth defects detectable on ultrasound

A new Northwestern Medicine study has found that the COVID-19 vaccine is not associated with birth defects that are detectable on ultrasound. The study analyzed electronic medical records from a cohort of 3,156 pregnant people who received at least one vaccine dose and found no increased risk of major fetal structural anomalies.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateApr 4, 2022

In-hospital deaths in STEMI patients with COVID-19 drop in 2021

Researchers found a significant decline in in-hospital mortality and secondary endpoints for STEMI patients with COVID-19 in 2021 compared to 2020. Vaccination status showed zero hospital deaths among vaccinated patients, while unvaccinated patients experienced high death rates.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·TypeObservational study·DateApr 4, 2022

Revolutionary tool will meet future pandemics with accelerated response

A new tool, SPARCLD, speeds up the development of vaccines and pharmaceutical products by accelerating synthesis and analysis on a nano scale. This breakthrough method allows for the creation of 40,000 different molecules in an area smaller than a pinhead, reducing material, energy, and economic costs.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalNature Chemistry·DateApr 4, 2022
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Researchers roll out data on COVID vaccine distribution and waste

Researchers from North Carolina State University have released a dataset providing detailed information on COVID-19 vaccine shipments and wastage across the US. The data aims to inform modeling and decision-making to optimize vaccine supply chains.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalTransportation Science·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 1, 2022

Scientific consortium established by national institutes of health provides real-time risk assessment of SARS-CoV-2 variants on immune protection

The SAVE program, a NIH initiative, provides real-time risk assessment of SARS-CoV-2 variants on immune protection. It uses a coordinated approach to identify and curate data about these variants, their impact on immunity, and their effects on vaccine protection.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNature·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMar 31, 2022

Should COVID-19 vaccines and drugs be not-for-profit?

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the need for equitable access to vaccines and medicines. Mohga Kamal-Yanni argues that waiving intellectual property rules can help share knowledge and technology, ensuring universal access. In contrast, Thomas Cueni emphasizes the importance of financial incentives for biopharmaceutical innovation.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateMar 30, 2022
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

We need to increase MMR uptake urgently

Low MMR vaccine uptake is being blamed for a decline in protective immunity, with only 95% coverage needed to prevent outbreaks. Experts urge parents and healthcare professionals to improve awareness and uptake of the vaccine.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateMar 30, 2022

COVID vaccination of children age 5-11 cut Omicron hospitalizations by 68%

A national study published in The New England Journal of Medicine found that COVID vaccination reduced hospitalizations with Omicron and Delta viruses in children aged 12-18. Vaccination also prevented severe illness in this age group, as well as critical illness in younger children.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 30, 2022

The great and powerful Dr. Oz? Alternative health media consumption and vaccine views

A new study by researchers from the Annenberg Public Policy Center finds that exposure to alternative health media can affect beliefs about consequential health-care issues like vaccination. After Dr. Mehmet Oz endorsed the MMR (measles-mumps-rubella) vaccine on a March 2019 episode of “The Dr. Oz Show,” significantly more people in hi...

SourceAnnenberg Public Policy Center of the University of Pennsylvania·JournalJournal of Communication·TypeSurvey·DateMar 29, 2022

Medical students demonstrate efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines in multiple immunocompromised patient groups

A group of medical students from NUS Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine conducted a meta-analysis on the efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines in immunocompromised patients. They found that immunocompromised patients produced significantly lower antibodies after vaccination, with only a third achieving seroconversion after two doses.

SourceNational University of Singapore, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine·JournalBMJ·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMar 29, 2022
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.

Equal is better? How people think Covid-19 vaccines should be shared worldwide

A study found that people in Germany and the US prioritize equal access to COVID-19 vaccines worldwide. In contrast, vaccine distribution according to a country's production capacity or free market regulation received little support. The research highlights the public's willingness to share vaccines despite logistical challenges.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalVaccine·TypeSurvey·DateMar 28, 2022

COVID-19 booster essential, even among individuals previously infected

A long-term cohort study in Israel found that antibody levels dropped seven to nine months after the second dose, but increased tenfold with a booster shot. The study suggests individuals with hybrid immunity also require subsequent boosters beyond two initial doses.

SourceBar-Ilan University·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateMar 28, 2022
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Research Brief: Healthcare worker perspectives of COVID-19 vaccines

A recent study published in Vaccine found that nearly 90% of healthcare workers accepted COVID-19 vaccines, particularly those serving immigrant communities. The researchers highlight the importance of education and interpersonal communication in influencing vaccine decisions.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota Medical School·JournalVaccine·TypeObservational study·DateMar 24, 2022

Model shows how antibodies navigate pathogen surfaces like a child at play

A new model suggests that antibodies select antigens based on their surface characteristics, similar to a child playing on stepping stones. The researchers used DNA origami to simulate the behavior of antibodies and found that they tend to favor closer antigen distances.

SourceKTH, Royal Institute of Technology·JournalNature Computational Science·TypeObservational study·DateMar 24, 2022

IgA antibodies seem to protect unvaccinated against COVID-19

A University of Gothenburg study found that IgA antibodies present in the respiratory tract protected healthcare workers from contracting COVID-19. The research, published in the European Journal of Immunology, suggests that these antibodies may play a crucial role in preventing severe illness and hospitalization.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalEuropean Journal of Immunology·TypeObservational study·DateMar 24, 2022
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.

No increase in pregnancy complications after COVID-19 vaccination

A large-scale registry study found no association between COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy and increased risk of preterm birth, growth retardation, or neonatal care. Vaccination was associated with a slightly lower risk of neonatal care and provided protection against COVID-19 for the newborn.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalJAMA·TypeObservational study·DateMar 24, 2022

Improved cell response seen with hybrid immunity

Researchers found that people who had COVID-19 and then got vaccinated generated an immune response more specific to fighting viral infections, producing a broader antibody response. This hybrid immunity also produced a cellular immune response called Th1 response, which is antiviral.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 24, 2022
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.

Behind the made-in-Canada approach to tracking COVID-19 antibodies

A team of Canadian scientists developed a scalable serology assay to track COVID-19 antibodies, informing public health decisions and vaccine timing. The assay has been used in over 30 studies across Canada, capturing natural infection and vaccination responses with high accuracy.

SourceLunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute·JournalClinical & Translational Immunology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 23, 2022

Novel therapeutic strategy shows promise against pancreatic cancer

Scientists at Albert Einstein College of Medicine have developed a novel therapeutic strategy that uses bacteria to deliver tetanus toxin into pancreatic tumor cells, inducing an immune response and killing the cancer. The treatment has shown promise in reducing cancer metastases by 87% and increasing mouse lifespan by 40%.

SourceAlbert Einstein College of Medicine·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateMar 23, 2022

Annals of Family Medicine March/April 2022 Media Tip Sheet

A new study finds that clinics supporting patients throughout the entire FIT process improve return rates and reduce colorectal cancer-related illness. Additionally, a telephone survey for dementia detection shows promise as a low-cost diagnostic tool, especially in primary care settings.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateMar 23, 2022
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Evidence is currently insufficient to show omicron variant has a shorter period of infectiousness compared with previous variants

The omicron variant's infectiousness period is uncertain, with evidence suggesting it may not be shorter than previous variants. Dr Marjolein Irwin-Knoester recommends a maximum of 7-day isolation for most cases, striking a balance between virus infectivity and community acceptance.

SourceEuropean Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases·DateMar 22, 2022

Changing beliefs is critical to sustaining high levels of vaccination

A new study by Santa Fe Institute researchers Katrin Schmelz and Samuel Bowles found that people's opposition to vaccines quadrupled when mandated, but many switched to pro-vaccination as they became more convinced of the vaccines' effectiveness. To increase vaccination rates, policymakers need to focus on building trust and changing h...

SourceSanta Fe Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeSurvey·DateMar 22, 2022

COVID-19 vaccination and adverse effects in nursing mothers and their infants

A study published in Breastfeeding Medicine found that COVID-19 vaccination was safe for nursing mothers and their breastfed infants, with most symptoms reported being mild. The investigation did not reveal any significant increase in adverse events or complications attributed to the vaccine.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalBreastfeeding Medicine·TypeCase study·DateMar 22, 2022
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.

Booster for immune protection after Corona infection

Researchers at Max Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology discovered that vaccination after COVID-19 recovery increases neutralizing antibody levels by up to five times, providing better protection against current coronavirus variants. The study involved 140 volunteers and showed that antibody levels remained high even after 300 days.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology·JournalEuropean Journal of Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 21, 2022
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.

mRNA-based Covid-19 vaccines are safe for high-risk patients, shows study

A new study published in Frontiers in Oncology has shown that mRNA-based Covid-19 vaccines are well-tolerated by high-risk patients with impaired immunity. The trial enrolled 566 patients and found no evidence of increased adverse events or interference with treatment, reassuring vaccine-hesitant immunocompromised individuals.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Oncology·TypeObservational study·DateMar 17, 2022

A possible new COVID-19 vaccine could be accessible for more of the world

A new COVID-19 vaccine developed at MIT and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center has shown promise in preclinical studies, eliciting a strong immune response and protecting animals against viral challenge. The vaccine can be manufactured using engineered yeast, making it an attractive option for low-cost and easy storage.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 16, 2022
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.

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.

COVID vaccination is also recommended for people with cancer

A comprehensive review of over 60 studies confirms that COVID vaccination is around 80% effective in protecting people with cancer against SARS-CoV-2 infection. The mRNA vaccines were found to be the most effective, and multiple vaccinations are recommended for better protection.

SourceLeibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knöll Institute -·JournalNature Reviews Clinical Oncology·TypeLiterature review·DateMar 14, 2022

Rate of COVID-19 vaccination among workers in California State prisons

A study of California state prison staff found that COVID-19 vaccination rates were lower among workers compared to incarcerated individuals, resulting in increased risks of further outbreaks. The plateaued vaccination rates posed significant concerns for continued transmission from prisons to surrounding communities.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Health Forum·DateMar 11, 2022