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Progress in the fight against tuberculosis

Scientists expect progress in developing an effective TB vaccine, with Phase IIa clinical trials underway. The new vaccine aims to activate both killer and helper cells for improved immune response.

SourceLindau Nobel Laureate Meetings·DateJun 30, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Vaccine 'reprograms' pancreatic cancers to respond to immunotherapy

Researchers developed a vaccine that triggered the growth of immune cell nodules within pancreatic tumors, reprogramming these intractable cancers. The vaccine, GVAX, consists of irradiated tumor cells modified to recruit immune cells, and boosted activity of molecular mechanisms that inhibit cancer-fighting immune cells.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalCancer Immunology Research·DateJun 18, 2014

Nurses play critical role in responding to global resurgence of pertussis

Pertussis cases are rising globally, with an estimated 50 million cases and 300,000 deaths worldwide. Nurses can educate patients and the public on the importance of follow-up booster vaccinations to maintain immunity. Partnerships between healthcare organizations, schools, and communities can also help increase vaccination rates.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of Christian Nursing·DateJun 13, 2014

A key step toward a safer strep vaccine

A recent study has identified a molecular pathway that could lead to a safer and more effective strep vaccine. The research discovered the genes responsible for producing a molecule that defines Group A Streptococcus, which causes over 700 million infections worldwide each year.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateJun 11, 2014
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.

Combined MMRV vaccine shows slight rise in adverse events

The combined MMRV vaccine has been associated with slightly higher rates of febrile seizures in young children, but these seizures are typically self-limiting and rarely have long-term effects. Researchers found a slight increase in the relative risk of febrile seizure with the MMRV vaccine compared to the separate MMR+V vaccine.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJun 9, 2014

UofL receives $5.5 million grant from Helmsley Charitable Trust

The University of Louisville has received a three-year, $5.5 million grant from the Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust to develop new treatments and vaccines for various forms of cancer. Researchers will focus on plant-based pharmaceuticals and vaccines for cervical and colon cancer.

SourceUniversity of Louisville·DateMay 16, 2014

Disease outbreak may not spur parents to have children vaccinated

A recent study found that rates of infant immunization with pertussis-containing vaccine did not increase during a pertussis epidemic in Washington state. Despite high risk, vaccination rates remained stable before and during the epidemic, suggesting that conventional wisdom about vaccine acceptance may be challenged.

SourceAmerican Academy of Pediatrics·DateMay 5, 2014
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.

Measles commentary in Annals of Internal Medicine

A recent measles outbreak in the US highlights the need for physicians to be familiar with the deadly disease, particularly in return travelers with fever and rash. The author emphasizes the importance of measles vaccination and vigilance in healthcare facilities to prevent further spread.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateApr 24, 2014

Impact of whooping cough vaccination revealed

A comprehensive genomic analysis of Bordetella pertussis bacteria reveals the impact of vaccination on its spread and diversification. The study shows that vaccination has dramatically reduced rates of infection and loss of life from whooping cough, but strategies used to date have not completely eradicated strains of the bacteria.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalmBio·DateApr 23, 2014

First metritis vaccine protects dairy cows

Cornell scientists developed the first vaccines that can prevent metritis in dairy cows, reducing incidence by up to 83% and alleviating symptoms. The research could help curb antibiotic resistance and save the US billions annually.

SourceCornell University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 16, 2014

Whooping cough bacterium evolves in Australia

A UNSW-led study found that 80% of 2012 Australian whooping cough cases were caused by pertactin-free strains, which may evade vaccine antibodies. The shift could reduce the vaccine's effectiveness in Australia.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalEmerging Infectious Diseases·DateApr 15, 2014
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.

Strain-specific Lyme disease immunity lasts for years, Penn research finds

A new study by University of Pennsylvania researchers found that strain-specific Lyme disease immunity can last six to nine years. This finding has significant implications for vaccine design, as a single vaccine could potentially cover multiple strains of the disease-causing bacteria, substantially reducing the risk of infection.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalInfection and Immunity·DateApr 2, 2014
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.

New technique brings us closer to HIV and hepatitis C vaccines

Researchers have developed a new technique using DNA vaccines to stimulate the immune system's response against HIV and Hepatitis C viruses. The technique, which has shown promising results in pre-clinical research, involves delivering a vaccination directly into the skin using a micro-needle device.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalImmunology and Cell Biology·DateMar 25, 2014

The Lancet journals: World TB Day media alert

The Lancet journals publish a special collection on tuberculosis, highlighting emerging challenges like drug-resistant strains and poor treatment outcomes. New anti-tuberculosis drugs and host-directed therapies are being developed to improve treatment efficacy.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·DateMar 23, 2014

Changes in hospital orders increase pertussis immunization rates

A study found that changing hospital orders increased pertussis immunization rates by 69% among new mothers, providing protection for themselves and their newborns. Implementing a standing order led to the largest increase in vaccinations, raising the rate from zero to 69%.

SourceLA BioMed·JournalAmerican Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology·DateMar 5, 2014

HPV vaccine provides significant protection against cervical abnormalities

A recent study published on bmj.com found that the HPV vaccine significantly protects against cervical abnormalities in young women. The research estimated that three doses of the vaccine provided 46% protection against high-grade cervical abnormalities and 34% protection against other cervical abnormalities.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateMar 4, 2014
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.

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.

Three doses of HPV vaccine recommended against genital warts

A Swedish register study found that receiving three doses of HPV vaccine significantly reduces the incidence of genital warts compared to two doses. The study, published in JAMA, suggests that a three-dose regimen may be more effective in preventing genital warts than previously thought.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalJAMA·DateFeb 11, 2014
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.

Gold nanoparticles help to develop a new method for tracking viruses

Researchers developed a novel method to study enterovirus structures and functions, allowing for tracking of viruses in cells and tissues. The method involves attaching gold nanoparticles to viruses, enabling studies on structural changes and mechanisms of virus uncoating.

SourceAcademy of Finland·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 15, 2014

Shingles linked to increased risk of stroke in young adults

Research published in Neurology suggests that having shingles may increase the risk of having a stroke years later, especially in young adults. People aged 18-40 who had shingles were found to be at a higher risk of stroke, heart attack, or transient ischemic attack compared to those who did not have shingles.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateJan 2, 2014

Annals of Internal Medicine tip sheet for Dec. 24, 2013

The article discusses the use of unlicensed vaccine Bexsero to combat meningitis outbreaks in the US, as well as new guidelines for BRCA mutation screening in high-risk women. The American College of Physicians also explains how Medicaid expansion will benefit poor citizens and their physicians by increasing access to healthcare.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateDec 23, 2013
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.

BCG vaccine more effective than previously thought

A new study reveals the BCG vaccine is highly protective against pulmonary TB globally, including in tropical regions. The key to its effectiveness lies in early vaccination before prior infection, suggesting a crucial role for BCG in controlling TB's major burden and transmission.

SourceLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateDec 19, 2013

H. pylori vaccine shows promise in mouse studies

Researchers have developed an oral vaccine against Helicobacter pylori using Lactobacillus acidophilus as a delivery vehicle. The vaccine elicits specific antibodies and provides significant protection against gastric infection.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalClinical and Vaccine Immunology·DateDec 19, 2013

Young killer cells protect against infectious mononucleosis

Researchers found that young natural killer cells play a key role in preventing infectious mononucleosis caused by Epstein-Barr Virus. A potential vaccination is being explored to protect against EBV infection and reduce the risk of developing Hodgkin lymphoma.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalCell Reports·DateDec 19, 2013
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.

Study: Moderate alcohol consumption boosts body's immune system

Researchers found that moderate drinking boosted the immune system of rhesus macaques, leading to enhanced responses to vaccines. In contrast, heavy drinkers showed diminished vaccine responses. The study suggests a potential link between moderate alcohol consumption and improved immune function.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalVaccine·DateDec 17, 2013

Are we hard-wired to follow celebrity medical advice?

A study analyzed how celebrities gain credibility as medical advisors and why the public follows their health advice. The researchers found that people's natural tendency to imitate others (herding) and celebrity endorsements can lead to a perception of trustworthiness, despite the lack of medical expertise.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateDec 17, 2013

Whooping cough vaccine antigen disappearing from bacteria in US

The pertactin antigen, crucial to the effectiveness of the whooping cough vaccine, is now absent from more than half of US bacterial isolates. The absence of this antigen has significant implications for public health authorities and highlights the need to monitor circulating bacterial populations.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalClinical and Vaccine Immunology·DateDec 12, 2013
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.

Could a vaccine help ward off MS?

A study published in Neurology suggests that a vaccine used to prevent tuberculosis may help prevent multiple sclerosis in people showing early signs of the disease. After six months, vaccinated individuals had fewer brain lesions than those who received a placebo, with 58% not developing MS compared to 30%.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateDec 4, 2013

'Nanosponge vaccine' fights MRSA toxins

A nanosponge vaccine has been developed to combat MRSA toxins, triggering neutralizing antibodies and fighting off lethal doses in mice. The vaccine was found to be safer and more effective than traditional toxoid vaccines made from heat-treated staph toxin.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateDec 1, 2013

Pitt unlocks trove of public health data to help fight deadly contagious diseases

The University of Pittsburgh's Project Tycho has digitized all weekly surveillance reports for reportable diseases in the US since 1888, revealing patterns and insights into vaccine effectiveness. The database contains data on eight vaccine-preventable diseases, showing a resurgence of some diseases despite vaccination efforts.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 27, 2013
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.

Rotavirus vaccination may also protect children against seizures

A new study suggests that rotavirus vaccination can also protect children against seizures, with a reduced risk of 20% compared to unvaccinated children. The researchers found that fully vaccinated children had fewer seizure-related hospitalizations and emergency department visits.

SourceInfectious Diseases Society of America·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateNov 21, 2013

Illinois receives Grand Challenges Explorations grants

The University of Illinois has won Grand Challenges Explorations grants to develop a single-dose vaccine for multiple animal diseases and a system to study the microscopic parasite Cryptosporidium. This funding aims to address pressing disease problems in developing nations, improving animal health and productivity.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·DateNov 20, 2013
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.

Hospitals vary in monitoring and treatment of children with brain injury, reports study in Neurosurgery

A study published in Neurosurgery found significant variations in hospitals' management of children with traumatic brain injury, particularly in ICP monitoring and craniectomy. The study analyzed data from over 7,000 children treated at 156 US hospitals and found that rates of these interventions varied significantly between hospitals.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalNeurosurgery·DateNov 11, 2013

Putting Lupus in permanent remission

Researchers at Northwestern University have successfully tested a nontoxic therapy that suppresses Lupus in blood samples of people with the autoimmune disease. The study found that the peptides can block and reduce autoantibody production to almost baseline levels, showing potential as a vaccine-like therapy.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalClinical Immunology·DateNov 11, 2013

1 dose of HPV vaccine may be enough to prevent cervical cancer

A recent study published in Cancer Prevention Research found that women vaccinated with one dose of the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine had stable antibodies against HPV viruses in their blood for up to four years. The results challenge previous dogma on protein subunit vaccines requiring multiple doses for long-lived responses.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalCancer Prevention Research·DateNov 4, 2013

HPV vaccination rates alarmingly low among young adult women in South

The study found that HPV vaccine initiation and completion rates were consistently lowest in the South, with 14% and 6% of women completing the series, respectively. The researchers believe regional disparities may be due to factors such as income, education, and insurance coverage.

SourceUniversity of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston·JournalVaccine·DateOct 30, 2013

A new DNA vaccine induces a Th2 immune response in Alzheimer's disease mice

A new DNA vaccine, p(Aβ3–10)10-C3d-p28, was developed to induce a Th2 immune response against amyloid-beta in Alzheimer's disease mice. The vaccine successfully elicited high titers of anti-amyloid-β antibodies and shifted the cellular immune response towards a Th2 phenotype.

SourceNeural Regeneration Research·JournalNeural Regeneration Research·DateOct 28, 2013
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.