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A new hope: A novel vaccine against COVID-19 is safe and induces antibody production

A new vaccine called KCONVAC has been shown to be safe and induce antibody production in healthy Chinese adults. The phase 1 and 2 clinical trials demonstrated that the vaccine is well-tolerated and generates a robust immune response, with stronger antibody production seen when participants received their second dose four weeks apart.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalChinese Medical Journal·DateJun 7, 2021

COVID-19: Seroprevalence and vaccine responses in UK dental care professionals

A study of UK dental care professionals found that natural infection alone is unlikely to generate meaningful, durable herd immunity, emphasizing the importance of vaccinations. The data also suggest that previous infection with SARS-CoV-2 leads to a faster and stronger immune response following vaccination.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·JournalJournal of Dental Research·DateJun 3, 2021

Luring bacteria into a trap

Researchers at ETH Zurich developed a vaccine that guides bacteria's evolution to make them a weaker pathogen, rather than trying to kill them. The combination vaccine was shown to be more effective in preventing Salmonella infections than existing vaccines.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Microbiology·DateJun 2, 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.

Experts propose 'five Cs' to tackle vaccine hesitancy

A five-pronged strategy addressing behavioural and socio-demographic factors is proposed to combat vaccine hesitancy. Confidence in vaccine safety is crucial, while addressing complacency among younger people and those of lower socioeconomic status is essential for increased uptake.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of the Royal Society of Medicine·DateJun 2, 2021

Clinical Trial Evaluating Mixed COVID-19 Vaccine Schedules Begins

A Phase 1/2 clinical trial has begun at the NIH to assess the safety and immunogenicity of different COVID-19 vaccine booster regimens. Participants will receive a single booster dose of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine, followed by telephone check-ins and in-person follow-up visits for one year.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·DateJun 1, 2021

COVID-19 simulation shows importance of safety efforts during vaccine distribution

A mathematical simulation by researchers at UNC Health Care shows that non-pharmaceutical interventions like mask-wearing and physical distancing can help prevent COVID-19 spikes as vaccines are distributed. The study found that widespread vaccine adherence and adherence to precautions can lead to a sustained decline in new cases.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJun 1, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Immunity boost in the gut

A comprehensive review suggests that gut microbiota play a crucial role in immune responses to vaccinations. The study aims to improve vaccine effectiveness by understanding the microbiota's impact on B and T cell immune responses.

SourceFlinders University·JournalNature Reviews Immunology·DateMay 27, 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.

Pertussis more common in Europe than previously thought

A new Finnish study reveals pertussis is more prevalent among middle-aged adults in European countries than previously assumed, leading to concerns about underdiagnosed cases. The study also highlights the low levels of antibodies against diphtheria, indicating decreasing herd immunity.

SourceUniversity of Turku·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 27, 2021

DNA vaccines for COVID-19 effective in mice, hamsters

Researchers developed a DNA vaccine encoding SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, which induced long-lasting antibodies in mice and hamsters. The vaccine showed protective efficacy against COVID-19 infection in hamsters, with no loss of body weight or viral RNA in their lungs.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateMay 27, 2021

Accessibility, usability of state health department COVID-19 vaccine websites

Researchers analyzed state health department COVID-19 vaccine website accessibility and usability, finding challenges that create frustration and contribute to ineffective vaccination efforts. The study highlights the need for improved accessibility and usability in healthcare websites to promote equitable health outcomes.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMay 26, 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.

A comprehensive profile of California's 'homegrown' coronavirus

Researchers analyzed COVID-19 swab samples from California counties and found the new variant was more transmissible, infecting people who already had COVID-19. Vaccines showed higher neutralization rates against the variant than antibodies from previously infected patients.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalCell·DateMay 26, 2021

How independent were the US and British vaccine advisory committees?

A recent investigation by The BMJ found that vaccine advisory committees in the US and UK have different disclosure standards, leaving the public uncertain about experts' industry ties. Experts on these committees rarely disclose conflicts of interest, despite significant financial payments from pharmaceutical companies.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateMay 26, 2021

Real-world flight data shows continued need for social distancing

A study using real-world air traffic control data found that vaccination programs alone may not stop the ongoing second wave of COVID-19 infections in the US. Strict social distancing measures remain necessary to prevent a new wave, according to researchers.

SourceReykjavik University·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 26, 2021

COVID-19 news from Annals of Internal Medicine

A small case series found that vaccination was not linked to worsening symptoms or reduced quality of life in patients with persistent COVID-19 symptoms. The study included 163 patients who received one dose of either Pfizer-BioNTech or Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMay 25, 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.

Autonomous cortisol secretion associated with 2- to 3-fold increase in mortality risk

A retrospective cohort study found that autonomous cortisol secretion is associated with a 2- to 3-fold increased risk of death and cardiovascular disease in patients with adrenal incidentalomas. Researchers recommend treating known cardiovascular risk factors and incorporating findings into treatment decisions, including surgery.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMay 24, 2021

UIC leads new collaborative to reduce COVID-19 disparities

The University of Illinois Chicago is leading a multi-center collaborative to improve community vaccinations, testing, and engagement in clinical research. The Chicagoland COVID Collaborative aims to bolster COVID-19 vaccine confidence and access among Black and Latino communities.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·DateMay 24, 2021

Why are some Covid-19 vaccines working better for men than women?

Research by MSU's Morteza Mahmoudi suggests that Covid-19 vaccines developed with nanomedicine may have different efficacies for men and women due to sex-based differences. The study highlights the importance of considering sex in vaccine development and research, particularly in using nanomedicines.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 20, 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.

Combining immunotherapies against cancer

Researchers developed a microparticle-based cancer vaccine that kickstarts an immune response, increasing the proportion of mice cured of tumors to 75%. Combining the vaccine with immune checkpoint inhibitors greatly improves treatment success, offering a promising approach to improving cancer treatment.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 18, 2021
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.

An asthma vaccine effective in mice

Developed by Inserm teams and French company NEOVACS, the conjugate vaccine induces sustained production of antibodies against IL-4 and IL-13, significantly reducing asthma symptoms.

SourceInstitut Pasteur·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 17, 2021

COVID-19 vaccination: Thrombosis can be prevented by prompt treatment

Researchers have successfully treated a patient with vaccine-induced thrombotic thrombocytopenia (VITT) using intravenous immunoglobulin concentrates, cortisone, and specific anticoagulants. Prompt diagnosis and treatment can prevent life-threatening thrombosis.

SourceMedical University of Vienna·JournalJournal of Thrombosis and Haemostasis·DateMay 17, 2021

Scientists rewrite the genesis of mosquito-borne viruses

Researchers have discovered a misinterpreted model of immature flavivirus particles, revealing an unexpected organisation that could lead to new and better vaccines. The study's findings define the exact wiring of the immature virus before it becomes infectious, providing a solid foundation for designing tomorrow's treatments.

SourceMonash University·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 14, 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.

COVID-19 vaccines in patients with cancer

A new study examines the safety of COVID-19 vaccines in patients with cancer, providing insights into potential risks and benefits. The research found that while some cancer treatments may interact with COVID-19 vaccines, the overall risk is low.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateMay 13, 2021

'Love thy neighbor, mask up' resonates among white evangelicals

A UCR study found that messages stressing the Christian doctrine of 'love thy neighbor' and aligning mask-wearing with patriotism can effectively persuade white evangelicals to wear masks. The research also suggests that similar messaging could be used for pro-vaccine efforts, particularly targeting Republican-leaning individuals.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 13, 2021

Treating the COVID-19 'infodemic' as an epidemic

Researchers recommend surveillance, accurate diagnosis, and rapid response to counteract COVID-19 misinformation and disinformation. They also introduce a taxonomy of categories for different types of misinformation related to Covid-19 and vaccination.

SourceAnnenberg Public Policy Center of the University of Pennsylvania·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMay 13, 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.

COVID-19 mRNA vaccines are immunogenic in pregnant and lactating women

A new study from Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center found that COVID-19 mRNA vaccines triggered immune responses in pregnant and lactating women, with maternal antibodies transferred to infant cord blood and breast milk. This suggests that vaccinating pregnant mothers may protect infants from COVID-19 infection.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalJAMA·DateMay 13, 2021

New ebolavirus vaccine design seeks to drive stronger antibody defense

Researchers at Scripps Research have unveiled an innovative Ebola virus vaccine design that stimulates a better protective immune response. The new approach involves tethering copies of the Ebola virus outer spike protein to a spherical carrier particle, resulting in a more stable and realistic-looking virus particle.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 12, 2021

We need herd immunity against COVID-19 vaccine misinformation

A new UNSW Sydney study examines content between December 2019 to November 2020 and found over 103 million people globally shared or reacted with misinformation about COVID-19 vaccines. The study highlights the need for traditional risk communication and community engagement methods to counter misinformation.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 12, 2021

Preliminary data suggests mixing COVID-19 vaccine increases reactogenicity

Research from the Com-COV study shows that mixing COVID-19 vaccine doses can lead to more frequent mild-moderate symptoms, but adverse reactions are short-lived and no safety concerns were found. The study's findings suggest that mixed schedules could result in increased work absences after vaccination.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalThe Lancet·DateMay 12, 2021
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.

Jab-free dengue immunity could be just a click away

A dengue virus vaccine candidate has produced a protective immune response in infected mice, offering a promising alternative to existing vaccines. The UQ-developed vaccine uses an Australian insect virus and can be administered via a microarray patch for easy, needle-free delivery.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·Journalnpj Vaccines·DateMay 12, 2021

Most frequently asked questions in rheumatology clinics answered

The Hong Kong Society of Rheumatology has developed consensus recommendations for COVID-19 vaccination in adult patients with autoimmune rheumatic diseases. The guidelines address concerns about vaccine efficacy and safety, as well as considerations for immunosuppressed patients.

SourceWorld Scientific·JournalJournal of Clinical Rheumatology and Immunology·DateMay 11, 2021
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.

COVID-19 vaccine does not damage the placenta in pregnancy

A new Northwestern Medicine study of placentas from vaccinated patients found no evidence of injury, supporting the safety of COVID-19 vaccines in pregnancy. The study adds to growing evidence that vaccination can protect fetuses without increasing harm.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateMay 11, 2021

CIA's misleading inoculation drive led to vaccine decline in Pakistan

A 2011 CIA-led vaccination campaign in Pakistan led to a significant decline in vaccination rates due to distrust and misinformation. The campaign's misleading tactics created doubt about the integrity of health workers and vaccines, resulting in lower vaccination rates among girls, particularly in districts with high levels of elector...

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalJournal of the European Economic Association·DateMay 11, 2021

New Strep A human challenge model paves the way to test vaccines against the deadly bacteria

A new Strep A human challenge model has been successfully developed, paving the way to test vaccines against the common deadly bacteria that causes sore throats, scarlet fever and skin sores. The model, which deliberately infected healthy adult volunteers with the bacteria in a controlled environment, was found to be safe and effective.

SourceMurdoch Childrens Research Institute·JournalThe Lancet Microbe·DateMay 9, 2021
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Only 41% of people would sign up for COVID-19 trials says new report

A new report by the University of Birmingham reveals that only 41.4% of respondents in a UK-wide survey expressed interest in participating in COVID-19 vaccine trials. The study found that male graduates, those aged 40-49 and 50-59, and individuals with no health issues were more likely to be interested, while Black Asian Minority Ethn...

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalTrials·DateMay 6, 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.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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