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Covid-19 booster jab in the autumn will offer better protection against variants of concern, suggests new study

Researchers found that a second dose of the Pfizer vaccine, especially in those with previous SARS-CoV-2 infection, dramatically increased virus variant neutralising antibody responses. This additional boost increases potential protection against existing and future variants of concern.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateAug 10, 2021

Crowding in prisons increases inmates’ risk for COVID-19 infections

Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital found that crowding in prisons significantly increases the risk of COVID-19 infections among inmates. The study suggests that policy changes are necessary to protect this vulnerable population and notes that even a small increase in crowding can pose a significant threat.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateAug 9, 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.

Organ transplant recipients significantly protected by COVID-19 vaccination

A recent study published in Transplant Infectious Disease found that COVID-19 vaccination provides strong protection against the virus for solid organ transplant recipients, with an almost 80% reduction in symptomatic cases. The study examined data from over 2,150 transplant patients and showed that nearly 70% of vaccinated patients re...

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalTransplant Infectious Disease·DateAug 5, 2021

“Triple contagion”: How fears influence coronavirus transmission

A new model incorporates human behavior and fears to predict multiple waves of COVID-19 infections. The 'Triple Contagion' model shows how fear can drive disease resurgence, as people may abandon protective measures prematurely or avoid vaccines due to misinformation.

SourceNew York University·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 3, 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.

More variants TLR7 gene found in young healthy men with severe Covid-19

Researchers found two new TLR7 gene variants in young, healthy men with severe Covid-19, highlighting the importance of genetic screenings for early intervention. These variants were associated with impaired immune response and increased risk of serious illness, emphasizing the need for preventive vaccination strategies.

SourceRadboud University Medical Center·JournalFrontiers in Immunology·TypeCase study·DateAug 3, 2021

New model shows how cities can safely lift COVID-19 restrictions

A new model developed by NYU Tandon School of Engineering researchers provides a data-centric approach to reopening towns and can serve as a blueprint for areas with low vaccine rates. The model shows that increasing access to social gatherings and public transportation at a certain rate supports a safe, rapid reopening.

SourceNYU Tandon School of Engineering·JournalAdvanced Theory and Simulations·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 2, 2021

What’s behind people’s hesitancy towards vaccination?

A new Polish study examines why people refuse vaccination, finding that generalized negative attitudes towards vaccines and confirmation bias play a significant role. Vaccine deniers often attribute negative symptoms to vaccines despite missing evidence of correlation.

SourceThe Polish Association of Social Psychology·JournalSocial Psychological Bulletin·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 30, 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.

Half of U.S. parents may not vaccinate their youngest child against Covid-19

A survey of US and NYC parents found that only 49% planned to vaccinate their youngest child, with vaccine hesitancy linked to education level and income. The study highlights the need for targeted information campaigns to improve vaccination uptake among young children.

SourceCUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy·JournalVaccine·TypeSurvey·DateJul 29, 2021

Combined effects of masking and distance on aerosol exposure potential

Researchers at Mayo Clinic found that wearing masks and maintaining physical distance significantly reduce the spread of COVID-19. The study showed that both disposable paper medical masks and two-layer cloth masks were effective in blocking aerosol particles, with increased distance reducing particle counts to near baseline levels.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalMayo Clinic Proceedings·DateJul 29, 2021

Highly potent, stable nanobodies stop SARS-CoV-2

Göttingen researchers have developed mini-antibodies that efficiently block the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 and its new variants. The nanobodies bind and neutralize the virus with extreme stability, making them promising agents to treat COVID-19.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalThe EMBO Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 28, 2021

How relaxing Covid-19 restrictions could pave the way for vaccine resistance

Researchers at the University of East Anglia warn that relaxing Covid-19 restrictions prematurely could pave the way for new vaccine-resistant virus mutations. The 'arms race' between humans and the virus continues, with rising cases providing opportunities for it to evolve into more transmissible variants.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalVirulence·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJul 27, 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 mechanics of puncture finally explained

Researchers developed a mechanical theory to determine the critical force required for needle insertion in soft materials like skin, discovering that tissue toughness and needle radius play crucial roles. The model provides quantitative predictions and may impact future technology like self-administered disposable pads with microneedles.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalJournal of the Mechanics and Physics of Solids·DateJul 26, 2021
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Study links vaccine immune response to age

Researchers found that older people have lower antibody responses against COVID-19 variants, making them more susceptible to infection. Vaccination still appears effective in preventing severe illness, but promoting vaccinations is crucial to protect the community.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalJAMA·DateJul 21, 2021

COVID-19 news from Annals of Internal Medicine

Researchers found that COVID-19 vaccines are more than 95% effective in preventing confirmed infection. The study also revealed significant disparities among different age groups and comorbidities, with higher risks observed among older adults and those with underlying health conditions. Additionally, a separate cohort study showed tha...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJul 20, 2021

Take your best shot: Which SARS-CoV-2 vaccine should I get, if any?

A computerized decision model found that mRNA vaccines (e.g., Pfizer) provide a net gain of 7.4 days in quality-adjusted life expectancy compared to not vaccinating at all, while adenovirus vector vaccines (e.g., J¼hnson ⚠ Johnson) yield virtually equivalent results.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalMedical Decision Making·DateJul 20, 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.

Study shows why second dose of COVID-19 vaccine shouldn't be skipped

A new study reveals the second dose of a COVID-19 vaccine induces powerful immune system responses, including broad antiviral protection and enhanced innate immunity. The research strongly supports skipping the second dose, as it stimulates a manifold increase in antibody levels and a terrific T-cell response.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalNature·DateJul 19, 2021

Preparing for the next pandemic: Harmonize vaccinations in Canada

A proposed Canadian Immunization Services model could provide a coordinated approach to vaccination across the country, addressing fragmentation in data sharing, vaccine procurement, and supply chain management. The independent not-for-profit corporation would be funded by provinces, territories, and potentially the federal government.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJul 19, 2021
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.

Study finds vaccine hesitancy lower in poorer countries

A new study published in Nature Medicine reveals that willingness to get a COVID-19 vaccine is higher in developing countries, with personal protection being the main reason for acceptance. Concern about side effects was the most common reason for vaccine hesitancy, but health workers were considered trusted sources of information.

SourceInnovations for Poverty Action·JournalNature Medicine·DateJul 16, 2021

No sign of COVID-19 vaccine in breast milk

A small UCSF study found that COVID-19 mRNA vaccines were not detected in human milk, providing early evidence of vaccine safety during breastfeeding. The study analyzed seven women and their children and found no trace of the vaccine in breast milk.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateJul 16, 2021

COVID-19 vaccination: Examining negative dominance on social media

A recent study published in the Disaster Medicine and Public Health Preparedness journal explores negative dominance of COVID-19 vaccine-related information online. The researchers found that compared to all other content, posts focused on adverse events pale in comparison to posts promoting positive messages about vaccines.

SourceSociety for Disaster Medicine and Public Health, Inc.·JournalDisaster Medicine and Public Health Preparedness·DateJul 16, 2021
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.

Fungi that live in the gut influence health and disease

Research suggests that fungi in the healthy gut can have a beneficial effect on health, while invasive forms may contribute to inflammatory bowel disease. Vaccines targeting specific proteins may help restore balance to the microbiome.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalNature·DateJul 14, 2021

Primary care provides clinical guidance, answers about COVID-19 testing, vaccine

Primary care physicians provide the largest share of services for vaccinations and majority of clinical visits for vaccination, making them well-positioned to administer COVID-19 vaccines. They can also answer vaccine questions and provide clinical guidance on interpreting results from COVID-19 testing and immunity determinations.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateJul 14, 2021

Vaccine hesitancy in young adults may hamper herd immunity

A UCSF study found that 83% of respondents aged 18-25 had not been vaccinated, with concerns over side effects and safety leading to low vaccination rates. The researchers recommend addressing these concerns through public education campaigns to encourage young adult vaccination.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·DateJul 14, 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.

New study provides data on protections of ebola vaccines

A new study published in Science Translational Medicine reports on the protection offered by Ebola vaccines. The research found that different vaccine platforms conferred varying levels of protection, with RBD-specific antibodies and Fc-mediated immune functions playing key roles.

SourceUniversity of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJul 14, 2021

Allocating COVID vaccines based on health and socioeconomic factors could cut mortality

A recent study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that 43% of US COVID-19 mortality variability is linked to county-level socioeconomic indicators and health vulnerabilities. Allocating vaccines to these areas could minimize severe outcomes, particularly deaths. The research suggests a correlation between he...

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJul 13, 2021

One shot of the Sputnik V vaccine triggers strong antibody responses

A single dose of the Sputnik V vaccine elicits significant antibody responses against SARS-CoV-2, with 94% of participants developing IgG antibodies within three weeks. Previously infected individuals show higher antibody levels after one dose compared to fully vaccinated volunteers.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Reports Medicine·DateJul 13, 2021

Google trends, the COVID-19 vaccine and infertility misinformation

Researchers found a nearly 35,000% increase in COVID-19 vaccine and infertility Google searches following a misinformation event. The study highlights the dangers of misinformation campaigns on public perception and decision-making, particularly among pregnant patients.

SourceAmerican Osteopathic Association·JournalJournal of Osteopathic Medicine·DateJul 13, 2021
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.

Care home residents are at risk of COVID-19 even after being fully vaccinated

A new study found that fully vaccinated care home residents are still at risk of COVID-19, with the vaccine being less effective in older adults. The study showed that unvaccinated residents were three times more likely to develop the infection than those who had received two doses of the vaccine.

SourceEuropean Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases·DateJul 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.

Disparities in vaccine acceptance among adults in China

A survey study examined COVID-19 vaccine acceptance and approaches to improve vaccination rates among Chinese adults. The study found significant disparities in vaccine uptake, with regional differences in attitudes towards vaccination.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Health Forum·DateJul 9, 2021

Study of antibodies produced in saliva after Pfizer COVID vaccine shows both importance of second vaccine dose and updating vaccines to combat new variants of concern

Researchers found that vaccination significantly increases neutralizing antibodies in saliva, reducing transmission risk. The study also shows the importance of receiving a second vaccine dose for maximum protection against evolving virus strains.

SourceEuropean Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases·DateJul 9, 2021

Should we delay COVID-19 vaccination in children?

Experts debate whether COVID-19 vaccination should be delayed in children due to unclear benefits and risks. Vulnerable people worldwide should be prioritized instead, but some argue that children should not be disadvantaged.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateJul 8, 2021

Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine in patients undergoing cancer treatment

A recent study published in JAMA Oncology found that the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine appears to be safe and effective in patients with cancer, achieving satisfactory serologic status. Despite a lag in antibody production compared to non-cancer control groups, most patients experienced seroconversion after the second dose.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateJul 8, 2021

Why we need to talk openly about vaccine side effects

New research shows that open communication about vaccine effectiveness and side effects boosts trust in health authorities, reducing hesitancy and conspiracy theories. Vague or reassuring communication, on the other hand, lowers acceptance of vaccines.

SourceAarhus University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 8, 2021
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.

CoronaVac vaccine provides 83.5% protection against symptomatic COVID-19 and 100% protection against hospitalization, interim analysis reveals

The CoronaVac vaccine demonstrated 83.5% protection against symptomatic COVID-19 and 100% effectiveness against hospitalization in a phase 3 trial. The study involved adults aged 18-59 and showed high efficacy with a very good safety profile, but further data is needed on the vaccine's long-term effects and efficacy against new variants.

SourceEuropean Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases·JournalThe Lancet·DateJul 8, 2021

Partnering with Black faith leaders and pharmacists increases COVID-19 vaccine uptake among Black communities, California study suggests

A California study suggests that partnering with black churches and medical professionals can increase COVID-19 vaccine uptake in black communities. The study found that a three-tier approach to mobile vaccination clinics, involving faith leaders and pharmacists, resulted in a significant increase in vaccine uptake among blacks.

SourceEuropean Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases·DateJul 8, 2021

Biomaterial vaccines ward off broad range of bacterial infections and septic shock

Researchers developed a biomaterial-based infection vaccine (ciVAX) approach to combat infectious diseases. ciVAX vaccines combine two technologies that capture immunogenic antigens from pathogens and reprogram the immune system, offering potential solutions for sepsis prophylaxis, pandemic threats, and biothreats.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateJul 8, 2021

Antibody but not T-cell response after first dose of Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine is weakened in patients receiving methotrexate

A new study found that patients taking immunosuppressants like methotrexate had weaker antibody responses to the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine after the first dose. However, T-cell responses were preserved in these patients, suggesting potential risks and benefits of vaccinating immunocompromised individuals.

SourceEuropean Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases·JournalThe Lancet Rheumatology·DateJul 8, 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.

COVID-19 infections among health care workers before, after vaccination

A single-center study reports a decline in COVID-19 cases among healthcare workers after vaccination, indicating the vaccine's effectiveness in preventing disease transmission. The study suggests that vaccination can reduce the risk of infection among healthcare workers, thereby protecting both patients and healthcare staff.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJul 8, 2021

Personalized tumor vaccines may solve tumor recurrence and metastasis challenges

Researchers developed hybrid membrane nanovaccines that educate patients' immune systems to distinguish tumor components as 'non-self', preventing recurrence and metastasis. The vaccines induce robust innate and adaptive immune responses, offering a new opportunity for individualized cancer vaccines.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJul 7, 2021

McMaster researchers identify how VITT happens

Researchers discovered the molecular mechanism behind vaccine-induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia (VITT), a rare but fatal blood clotting disorder. The findings will enable the development of rapid diagnostic tests and new strategies to prevent VITT, making vaccines safer.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalNature·DateJul 7, 2021

The Obesity Society issues new position statement:

The Obesity Society's new position statement confirms COVID-19 vaccines are highly efficacious in individuals with and without obesity. Trials demonstrate similar vaccine efficacy in both groups against COVID-19-associated hospitalization and death.

SourceThe Obesity Society·JournalObesity·DateJul 7, 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.

Context in science reporting affects beliefs about, and support for, science

A new study led by a University at Buffalo researcher shows that the way news media talk about science focuses too much attention on individuals, leading to inaccurate perceptions of scientific accuracy and reliability. The study suggests that contextualizing failure stories within the scientific process can help ameliorate harm to sci...

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalPublic Understanding of Science·DateJul 6, 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.