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‘Immune imprinting’ by different SARS-CoV-2 spike sequences from variants and vaccines means we now have diverse patterns of protection against new variants

A study by Imperial College London found that the first SARS-CoV-2 spike protein encountered through vaccination or infection influences subsequent immune responses to current and future variants. This 'immune imprinting' affects the rate of decay of protection and impacts antibody levels over time.

SourceImperial College London·JournalScience·TypeObservational study·DateDec 2, 2021

COVID-19 Delta variant may have increased ability to evade vaccine-induced immunity

A recent study published in PLOS Pathogens found that the COVID-19 Delta variant may have a reduced ability to be neutralized by vaccines. The researchers analyzed serum samples from vaccinated individuals and found that the Delta variant was more effective at evading vaccine-induced immunity than other variants, such as Beta and Alpha.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 2, 2021

Delaying second dose of mRNA COVID-19 vaccine produces stronger immune response

A Canadian study found that delaying the second dose of an mRNA COVID-19 vaccine produces a stronger immune response, which could inform international vaccination strategies. This longer dose interval strategy enables early access to first doses and ensures better protection with the two-dose series.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·TypeObservational study·DateDec 1, 2021
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.

Which COVID-19 vaccine works better?

The study found that the Moderna vaccine offered a lower risk of documented infection (21% reduced), symptomatic COVID-19 (44% reduced), hospitalization (55% reduced), ICU admission (10% reduced), and death (2% reduced) compared to the Pfizer vaccine. The results suggest that either vaccine is effective, but Moderna may be slightly mor...

SourceVeterans Affairs Research Communications·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeNews article·DateDec 1, 2021

Study: How to freeze-dry a potential COVID-19 vaccine

Researchers at University at Buffalo successfully freeze-dried a liposome-based liquid vaccine formula, offering a thermostable solution for future COVID-19 vaccines. The freeze-dried product showed stability at elevated temperatures and induced effective antibody responses in mice.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 1, 2021

Study on over a million people shows breakthrough COVID-19 infections occur more often and are more severe in immunocompromised

A large-scale study of over 1.2 million people found breakthrough COVID-19 infections are rare but more frequent and severe in those with weakened immune systems. The study supports the introduction of a third vaccine dose for immunocompromised individuals to increase protection.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalJournal of Medical Economics·TypeObservational study·DateNov 30, 2021

ComCor study: New results on places of infection with SARS-CoV-2 and analysis of the efficacy of messenger RNA vaccines against the Delta variant

The study found that indoor bars, private parties, and nightclubs were high-risk places for transmitting the Delta variant, with men being more susceptible. Previous infection conferred a 95% protective effect, while two doses of mRNA vaccines provided 67% protection against symptomatic infection.

SourceInstitut Pasteur·TypeCase study·DateNov 30, 2021
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.

Vaccinate children with poorly controlled asthma to cut covid risk, experts say

A new study published in The Lancet Respiratory Medicine found that children with poorly controlled asthma are three to six times more likely to be hospitalized with Covid-19. Experts advise vaccinating these children to reduce the risk of infection and spread in schools and households.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalThe Lancet Respiratory Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateNov 30, 2021

Moderna COVID-19 vaccine effective 5 months after 2nd dose

A Kaiser Permanente study found the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine to be 87% effective in preventing COVID-19 infection and 96% effective in preventing hospitalization. The vaccine's effectiveness persisted even among those with underlying conditions, providing reassurance about its durability.

SourceKaiser Permanente·JournalThe Lancet Regional Health - Americas·DateNov 29, 2021

HPV vaccination, changes in cervical cancer rates, deaths

A nationwide study found decreased cervical cancer incidence and death rates among women and girls aged 15-24 after HPV vaccine introduction. The decline was more pronounced in the younger age group compared to those aged 25-29 and 30-39, suggesting a potential association with vaccination.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateNov 29, 2021
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Benefits of COVID-19 vaccination: An estimated half a million lives saved in the WHO European Region since end of 2020

A recent study estimates that COVID-19 vaccination prevented almost 470,000 deaths among people aged 60 years and older across Europe. The authors found that early implementation of vaccination was associated with the largest reduction in expected deaths.

SourceEuropean Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC)·JournalEurosurveillance·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 25, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

The Lancet Infectious Diseases: First real-world study reports effectiveness of BBV152 against symptomatic COVID-19 in India

A real-world study of BBV152 found that two doses resulted in 50% effectiveness against symptomatic COVID-19 in hospital workers. The study's findings support the importance of a second dose for maximum protection, but highlight limitations in estimating vaccine effectiveness against severe outcomes.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·TypeObservational study·DateNov 23, 2021

Age, sex and waning COVID-19 antibodies

A study found that individuals under 65 had higher antibody levels than those over 65, with women outperforming men. However, by six months post-vaccination, antibody levels dropped significantly for everyone in the study group.

SourceTexas Biomedical Research Institute·JournalJournal of Medical Biochemistry·DateNov 19, 2021
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.

Delta-like SARS-CoV-2 variants are most likely to increase pandemic severity

A mathematical model suggests that SARS-CoV-2 Delta-like variants, which combine enhanced transmissibility and partial immune escape, will cause more severe pandemics than variants with either trait alone. Vaccination is predicted to be highly beneficial in these cases, preventing more infections and breakthroughs.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalCell·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 19, 2021

Most comprehensive analysis to date reveals 30% of healthcare personnel in US hospitals remain unvaccinated against COVID-19

A recent CDC analysis found that vaccination rates among US hospital personnel stalled after initial uptake, with 30% remaining unvaccinated as of September 2021. The analysis, which included data from over 3.3 million healthcare workers, revealed that vaccine mandates and educational efforts could help improve coverage.

SourceAssociation for Professionals in Infection Control·JournalAmerican Journal of Infection Control·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 18, 2021

Access to COVID-19 vaccines in countries hosting clinical trials

A recent study found that low-, middle-, and high-income countries hosting COVID-19 vaccine trials received proportionately more doses of vaccines. High-income countries were able to fully vaccinate their populations due to the higher dose allocation, raising concerns about unequal access to life-saving vaccines.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateNov 18, 2021

After comparing 17.5 million strategies, researchers validate CDC’s vaccine rollout recommendation

Iowa State University researchers validated the CDC's COVID-19 vaccine rollout strategy, which prioritized frontline essential workers, older age groups, and individuals with underlying health factors. The model showed that this approach was highly effective in curbing mortality while keeping case numbers at bay.

SourceIowa State University·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 17, 2021
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Did the US COVID-19 vaccine strategy work?

The CDC's four-tiered vaccine prioritization strategy outperformed most approaches in reducing deaths and cases, while some optimizations could improve outcomes. The study found that prioritizing healthcare workers and individuals under 16 was optimal, but strategies focusing on comorbidities were also effective.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 17, 2021
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Scientists create a new best-in-class anti-malarial antibody

Researchers at the Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT and Harvard have developed a new anti-malarial antibody that provides significant protection against malaria, outperforming existing best-in-class antibodies. The breakthrough could lead to improved distribution of monoclonal antibodies in endemic countries.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalImmunity·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 16, 2021

Unvaccinated: The kids aren’t alright

A study found that vaccination rates among Indian children improved significantly between 1992 and 2016, with a 70% drop in child mortality from vaccine-preventable diseases. However, zero-dose children remained concentrated among disadvantaged groups, including low-income households and mothers with limited education.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalThe Lancet·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 16, 2021
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

SMART develops 10-minute test for detection of COVID immunity

A new test can determine the presence of SARS-CoV-2 neutralising antibodies within 10 minutes, allowing for larger-scale screening and mass monitoring. The rapid cellulose pull-down viral neutralisation test has been developed using protein engineering technology and offers quick results with high accuracy.

SourceSingapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART)·JournalCommunications Medicine·DateNov 12, 2021

Protection of dialysis patients from coronavirus variants of concern

Researchers investigated the impact of mRNA vaccines on dialysis patients' immunity against Sars-Cov-2 variants. They found that while many produce reactive T cells, protective antibodies are formed less frequently. This immunological memory can be strengthened through vaccination and repeated contact with the pathogen.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateNov 11, 2021

KU study shows political ideology determines health behavior, especially during pandemic

A KU study reveals that individuals' political ideologies play a crucial role in shaping their health behaviors during the COVID-19 pandemic. The research, conducted using two surveys and a review of existing data, found that ideology was a significant predictor of health behavior, especially when compared to other factors such as age,...

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalSSM - Population Health·TypeSurvey·DateNov 11, 2021

New study finds evidence of COVID antibodies in breast milk of vaccinated mothers

A study published in JAMA Pediatrics found that mothers with disease-acquired immunity and those with vaccine-immunity produced high levels of antibodies in their breast milk, providing neutralization against SARS-CoV-2. The antibodies, including IgA and IgG, existed for three months after infection or vaccination.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·TypeObservational study·DateNov 11, 2021
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.

How to COVID-proof the grocery line, classroom, and orchestra

Researchers have developed innovative ways to avoid clouds of coronavirus in public waiting lines, classrooms, and live musical performances. Periodic movements in lines can cause aerosol transmission, while heating in winter and air conditioning in summer create 'dead zones' that spread airborne diseases.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·DateNov 10, 2021

SARS-CoV-2 vaccines safe and immunogenic in most people with cancer

A large group of patients with diverse cancer types received two doses of SARS-CoV-2 vaccines or one dose of the Johnson and Johnson vaccine, showing modestly impaired immune responses. Booster vaccine doses enhanced immunity in most patients.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·TypeObservational study·DateNov 10, 2021
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.

November/December 2021 Annals of Family Medicine tip sheet

The article highlights the importance of recovering routine vaccination rates after the COVID-19 pandemic. Vaccinations for MMR, DTaP, polio, and HPV have seen significant drops, posing dire consequences to population health. Experts emphasize the need for stakeholders to drive awareness, facilitate access, and build vaccine confidence.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateNov 9, 2021

COVID-19: The older you are, the more antibodies you have

Researchers found that older individuals produce higher levels of protective antibodies after infection or vaccination, providing better defense against emerging variants. Antibodies from infected individuals 50+ years old reacted strongly to the Delta variant, outperforming those from vaccinated adults under 50.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 8, 2021
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.

Pediatric practice provides roadmap for COVID-19 vaccination of children and caregivers in hesitant communities

A pediatric practice in Rochester, NY, demonstrates success in vaccinating eligible patients and their caregivers during regular visits, showcasing a model for addressing vaccine hesitancy. The approach found positive outcomes, including increased comfort and trust among caregivers.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateNov 5, 2021

Possible allergic reaction to COVID-19 vaccine shouldn’t mean skipping the vaccine

Two new studies show that people who think they'll have an allergic reaction or believe they've had one to the first vaccine can still be fully vaccinated. The studies found that 100 patients with PEG allergies and 25 patients with adverse events following immunization tolerated the full vaccine series without severe symptoms.

SourceAmerican College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology·JournalAnnals of Allergy Asthma & Immunology·TypeObservational study·DateNov 5, 2021
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

COVID-19: Governments must stop vaccine cost secrecy

A recent study estimates that the net manufacturing costs for 100 million doses of COVID-19 vaccine ready for shipping range from $0.54 to $0.98. Companies charge significantly higher prices, despite discounts and tiered pricing for low-income countries, which are likely to prolong the global pandemic.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of the Royal Society of Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 3, 2021

Novel tool for reporting symptoms after vaccination helped health care workers discern injection side effects from COVID-19 symptoms

A decision-support tool aided healthcare workers in distinguishing COVID-19 vaccination symptoms from actual infections, preserving the workforce during a surge. The study found that providing this guidance helped curb the spread of COVID-19 and reduced missed workdays.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·TypeObservational study·DateNov 3, 2021
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.

Urgent need for vaccine to prevent deadly Group B streptococcus

A new report highlights the alarming global impact of Group B streptococcus, which can lead to up to 150,000 infant deaths annually. Maternal vaccination is seen as a cost-effective solution to reduce this toll, with significant health benefits in all regions.

SourceLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine·DateNov 2, 2021

How conspiracy theorists exploited Covid-19 science

Conspiracy theorists used the conditional nature of science to erode trust in public health authorities' recommendations, making community immunity elusive. The Annenberg Public Policy Center scholar argues that exploiting scientific funding structures and updates fueled conspiracy theories.

SourceAnnenberg Public Policy Center of the University of Pennsylvania·JournalNature Human Behaviour·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateNov 1, 2021
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.