Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Vaccine misinformation and social media

A study found that people exposed to vaccine content on social media were more likely to be misinformed about vaccines than those exposed to it on traditional media. Up to 20% of respondents were at least somewhat misinformed, with common claims including the link between vaccines and autism.

SourceAnnenberg Public Policy Center of the University of Pennsylvania·DateFeb 17, 2020
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.

HPV vaccine hesitancy in Japan could result in 5,000 additional death

A study found that HPV vaccination rates dropped significantly after the government's suspension of proactive recommendations, leading to potential 5,000 additional deaths. Restoring high-level political support and proactive recommendations could prevent most of this damage.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalThe Lancet Public Health·DateFeb 16, 2020

Shingles vaccine may also reduce stroke risk

A new study found that the Zoster Vaccine Live shingles vaccination may prevent some older adults from having a stroke, reducing the risk by about 16% for ischemic stroke and 12% for hemorrhagic stroke. The vaccine's protection was strongest among people ages 66 to 79 years.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateFeb 12, 2020

Recent advances in addressing tuberculosis give hope for future

Recent advances in TB diagnostics, treatments and prevention offer hope for reducing and ultimately eliminating the burden of tuberculosis. The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases has made significant progress in improving TB diagnostics, therapeutic regimens and prevention approaches.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateFeb 11, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Single HPV vaccine dose may be effective against cervical cancer

A single dose of the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine is as effective as multiple doses for preventing preinvasive cervical disease, which can later develop into cervical cancer. The risk of preinvasive cervical disease was lower in adolescents who received one, two, or three doses of the HPV vaccine compared to unvaccinated teens.

SourceWiley·JournalCancer·DateFeb 10, 2020
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.

Exposing a virus's hiding place reveals new potential vaccine

Researchers have identified a potential vaccine to prevent respiratory infections in humans by understanding how the human metapneumovirus (HMPV) hides from the immune system. A mutated form of HMPV was created, which triggers a stronger innate immune response, effectively preventing infection and promoting an adaptive immune response.

SourceOhio State University·JournalNature Microbiology·DateFeb 3, 2020

Pioneering SFU research customizes vaccines to reduce bacterial disease

Researchers propose using genomic data and mathematical modelling to design vaccines for the specific geographic location where they will be used. This approach aims to minimize rates of pneumococcal disease, a serious infection that can cause pneumonia, sepsis, and bacterial meningitis.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalNature Microbiology·DateFeb 3, 2020

Hepatitis B: New therapeutic approach may help to cure chronic hepatitis B infection

Researchers at Helmholtz Zentrum München developed a novel therapeutic approach to cure chronic hepatitis B infection. By knocking down the expression of the virus' proteins, they enabled successful vaccination with TherVacB, a novel therapeutic vaccine. The therapy aims to cure existing chronic diseases by activating immune cells.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateFeb 3, 2020
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.

Study results will inform immunization programs globally

The study found good protection against meningococcal disease in vaccinated individuals, but no overall reduction in bacterial carriage. The findings highlight the importance of individual vaccination and identify high-risk behaviors associated with bacterial transmission.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJan 22, 2020

Doubts raised about effectiveness of HPV vaccines

A new analysis of HPV vaccine clinical trials raises doubts about their effectiveness, citing methodological problems and limited trial populations. The study found that the trials were not designed to detect cervical cancer, which takes decades to develop, and that vaccination may only prevent low-grade abnormal cell changes.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of the Royal Society of Medicine·DateJan 21, 2020
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Do studies underestimate the prevalence of typhoid?

A study published in PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases found that typhoid prevalence is likely higher than estimated due to missed blood cultures, with patients more likely to have cultures if older, feverish or suspected urinary tract infection.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateJan 16, 2020

A solid vaccine for liquid tumors

Researchers developed a novel cryogel vaccine that primes the immune system to attack and eliminate acute myeloid leukemia cells in mice. The vaccine successfully protected against disease recurrence when combined with chemotherapy.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateJan 14, 2020

PREVAC-UP: The Partnership for Research on Ebola Vaccination extends follow-up

The Partnership for Research on Ebola Vaccination (PREVAC) has received additional funding to evaluate three Ebola vaccine regimens for long-term safety and durability. The PREVAC-UP project will assess these factors over 5 years after vaccination, as well as the impact of co-infections like malaria and helminths on immune responses.

SourceINSERM (Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale)·DateJan 13, 2020
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.

AAFP releases updated feline retrovirus guidelines to the veterinary community

The AAFP has released updated Feline Retrovirus Testing and Management Guidelines, providing current information on pathogenesis, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment. The guidelines aim to optimize care for feline patients infected with FeLV and FIV, and offer practical guidance for veterinarians and cat caregivers.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of Feline Medicine and Surgery·DateJan 9, 2020
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.

From the mouths of babes: Lessons in humility

A pediatrician at Children's National Hospital wrote a 27-line poem inspired by her young patients' comments about vaccines. The poem, part of the 'Poetry and Medicine' series, aims to capture the optimism and resilience of children despite challenges. Dr. Sims hopes the poem will help build self-efficacy and resiliency in her patients.

SourceChildren's National Hospital·JournalJAMA·DateJan 7, 2020

Changed route of immunization dramatically improves efficacy of TB vaccine

Researchers found that intravenous BCG vaccination significantly increased protection against TB in rhesus macaques. The study showed that IV BCG elicited strong, sustained T cell responses in the lungs, leading to a high degree of protection against infection and disease.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalNature·DateJan 1, 2020

Women with single dose of HPV vaccine gain similar protection as multiple doses

A new study reveals that one dose of the HPV vaccine may prevent infection from the potential cancer-causing virus, with implications for reducing global cancer burden. The current two- or three-dose series may be replaced by a single dose regimen if ongoing clinical trials provide sustained benefits.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateDec 27, 2019
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.

Why isn't there a vaccine for staph?

Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine found that T cells play a critical role in protecting against staph infections. The study suggests activating untapped immune cells and immunizing infants before birth to block toxin effects. This new approach shows promise for developing an effective staph vaccine.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 24, 2019

Barring nonmedical exemptions increases vaccination rates, study finds

A California law eliminating nonmedical exemptions increased vaccination rates and restored 'herd immunity,' preventing outbreaks. The study found a 3.3% increase in MMR coverage and a 4.3% increase in overall vaccination coverage, while nonmedical exemptions decreased by 2.4%.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateDec 23, 2019

California's stricter vaccine exemption policy and improved vaccination rates

A new study published in PLOS Medicine found that California's elimination of non-medical vaccine exemptions led to a significant increase in MMR vaccination coverage, with non-medical exemptions decreasing by 2.4% and medical exemptions increasing by 0.4%. The policy change was associated with a 3.3% increase in MMR coverage across th...

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateDec 23, 2019

NIH-developed Zika vaccine improves fetal outcomes in animal model

A new study found that a Zika vaccine developed by NIH improved fetal outcomes in pregnant monkeys and rhesus macaques infected with congenital Zika virus. The vaccine reduced virus levels and prevented fetal infection, suggesting sterilizing immunity may not be required for protection.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateDec 19, 2019
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.

Quantum dot technology invisibly records vaccination history on skin

A research team developed a microneedle platform using fluorescent quantum dots to deliver vaccines and record vaccination history in the skin. The platform offers a dependable way for clinicians to keep accurate medical records, potentially saving millions of lives worldwide.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateDec 18, 2019

Zika vaccine protects fetus in pregnant monkeys

An experimental Zika DNA vaccine VRC5283 reduced virus levels and improved fetal outcomes in pregnant rhesus macaques. The results suggest the vaccine may prevent transmission to humans as well.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateDec 18, 2019

Breakthrough in Zika virus vaccine

Researchers at the University of Adelaide have made significant progress in developing a novel Zika virus vaccine that prevents infection in pre-clinical models. The vaccine's effectiveness has been demonstrated in mouse models, offering a promising solution to prevent congenital effects in infants born to infected mothers.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 12, 2019
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.

Virus multiplication in 3D

Researchers have successfully determined the three-dimensional structure of a vaccinia virus RNA polymerase at atomic resolution, providing key findings on virus multiplication. The complex is composed of various subunits and relies on host tRNA molecules to function, enabling an essential step in the pathogen's life cycle.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalCell·DateDec 12, 2019

A vaccine against chronic inflammatory diseases

Researchers developed a vaccine that targets flagellin in the gut microbiota to reduce inflammation. The vaccine showed protection against intestinal inflammation and metabolic disorders such as diabetes and obesity.

SourceINSERM (Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale)·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 11, 2019

New insect virus provides a safer platform for flavivirus vaccines and tests

A new species of insect virus, Binjari virus, has been identified that can be engineered to house genes from disease-causing flaviviruses. This non-infectious virus represents a flexible tool for testing diagnostics and vaccines for various infectious diseases, including yellow fever, dengue, and West Nile encephalitis.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateDec 11, 2019

Vaccine candidate for emerging virus

A study in ferrets demonstrates a protective humoral immune response to a weakened form of SFTSV after a single inoculation, and no clinical disease or mortality. The findings suggest potential for this live-attenuated vaccine candidate to provide cross-genotype protection against the emerging virus.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 9, 2019

Extending HPV vaccination ages would produce relatively small health benefits

A new study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that extending the HPV vaccination age to include women and men up to 45 would produce small, but significant health benefits. The study used a health economic model to evaluate the added effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of such an extension.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateDec 9, 2019
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.

MMR vaccine-eligible children traveling abroad fail to get vaccinated

A study found that almost 60% of eligible young travelers were not vaccinated due to clinician decision or guardian refusal, despite recommendations from the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices. The researchers emphasize the urgent need for greater awareness of MMR vaccination benefits for international travelers.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateDec 9, 2019

Peanut allergy vaccine to rewrite the immune system

Researchers have developed a novel vaccine that uses a virus-based platform to rewrite the body's natural response to peanut allergens, causing a non-allergic immune response. The vaccine has shown signs of success in mouse models and preliminary in vitro studies, paving the way for human trials.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·DateDec 6, 2019

Typhoid vaccine over 81% effective in tackling disease in Nepal

A new field study in Nepal shows the typhoid vaccine is safe, immunogenic and effective against the disease, with results showing 7 cases out of 20,000 children vaccinated. The study's findings are significant, especially with the recent spread of drug-resistant typhoid, which threatens child health in affected regions.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateDec 4, 2019

New vaccine will stop the spread of bovine TB

Researchers developed a novel vaccine that protects against bovine tuberculosis (TB) without interfering with the tuberculin skin test. The new vaccine allows for simultaneous protection and accurate diagnosis of TB in cattle.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 27, 2019
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.

Simulating amino acid starvation may improve dengue vaccines

Researchers found that a plant-based compound called halofuginone improves the immune response to a potential dengue vaccine in mice, producing twice as many antibodies and binding more strongly. The compound mimics amino acid starvation, activating a pathway that results in better antibodies.

SourceCornell University·JournalScience Signaling·DateNov 26, 2019

Successful study of Swedish vaccine candidate against diarrhea

A phase I/II study of the Swedish vaccine candidate ETVAX found it to be safe and broadly immunogenic, inducing impressive immune responses in young children and infants. The vaccine showed high response rates among children aged 2-5 years and infants, with some even showing enhanced immune responses when given with an adjuvant.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateNov 20, 2019

Trying to help parents decide to vaccinate kids against HPV? Consider storytelling

A recent study by Drexel University researchers found that anti-vaccine messages on Instagram, which feature narratives, experience higher engagement than pro-vaccine posts. The team suggests that pro-vaccine posts could garner greater engagement if they provide information and evidence through a more narrative structure.

SourceDrexel University·JournalHealth Education & Behavior·DateNov 19, 2019
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.

Vaccine-preventable disease outbreaks and state legislative proposals

Outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases like measles and whooping cough were associated with introduction of legislation changing vaccine exemption laws in states. The study found a correlation between health improvements and increased legislative activity related to vaccine policies.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateNov 18, 2019

Scientists make vampire bats 'glow' to simulate vaccine spread

Researchers used fluorescent gel to test vaccine effectiveness in wild vampire bats, showing a 2.6-fold increase in population-level immunity compared to conventional non-spreadable vaccines. The study suggests a strategic switch from poisoning to vaccination could lead to a dramatic reduction in rabies across Latin America.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateNov 18, 2019

Vaccine reduces likelihood of severe pneumonia

A new study finds that a vaccine against pneumococcal bacteria reduces the likelihood of severe pneumonia in children by 35%. The research also highlights the importance of vaccinating children to protect the whole community and reduce the spread of pneumococcus. By evaluating the effectiveness of pneumococcal vaccines in Asia, the stu...

SourceMurdoch Childrens Research Institute·DateNov 12, 2019
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Contraceptive drug shows promise for preventing and regressing cervical cancer

A new study published in The American Journal of Pathology suggests that medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) is effective in preventing the development of cervical cancer in mice with precancerous lesions. MPA also decreased existing precancerous lesions, offering a non-invasive approach to combat cervical cancer.

SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateNov 12, 2019

Study vaccine protects monkeys against four types of hemorrhagic fever viruses

Scientists developed an investigational vaccine that protected cynomolgus macaques against Ebola, Sudan, Marburg, and Lassa viruses, all causing severe disease and death. The quadrivalent VesiculoVax vaccine showed promising results in a study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateNov 8, 2019

ACP issues new guidance statement for colorectal cancer screening

The American College of Physicians (ACP) has released a new guidance statement for colorectal cancer screening in average-risk adults between 50 and 75 years old. The guidance suggests that physicians select the most suitable screening test for each patient based on factors such as benefits, harms, costs, availability, frequency, and p...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateNov 4, 2019
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.