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How Omicron escapes from antibodies

A computational study finds that Omicron's spike protein has evolved to evade multiple classes of antibodies targeting SARS-CoV-2, even those from vaccinated individuals and monoclonal antibody treatments. The study suggests vaccines still offer protection due to the development of T cell immunity.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 1, 2022
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.

Research by Cedars-Sinai OB-GYN experts featured at scientific conference

Cedars-Sinai OB-GYN experts present research on improving preeclampsia detection through AI-powered analysis of electronic health records. They also explore the relationship between incomplete information on vaccine side effects and COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy, highlighting the need for targeted preventive therapies. Furthermore, the te...

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·DateJan 31, 2022

Genomics study helps guide Shigella vaccine development

A new genomics study has helped guide the development of vaccines against Shigella, a leading cause of severe diarrhoea in children. The research revealed the extent of genomic diversity among Shigella species, highlighting challenges to current vaccine approaches.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalNature Microbiology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 31, 2022

These scientists are racing to beat Omicron

Researchers are working tirelessly to develop vaccines against the Omicron variant, a crucial step in combating the pandemic. By understanding the biology of Omicron, scientists hope to create effective treatments and boosters to protect against future pandemics.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalCell·DateJan 21, 2022

Research involving rhesus macaques paves way for schistosomiasis vaccine

Researchers discovered nine genes in S. mansoni's autophagy pathway inhibited by the primate's immune system, preventing parasite multiplication and contaminating the host. The study suggests a potential novel therapy and vaccine against schistosomiasis.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 13, 2022
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.

Tuberculosis vaccine could assist future COVID-19 vaccine development

Researchers identified 40 peptide pairs with potential cross-reactivity between BCG vaccination and SARS-CoV-2, offering a new strategy to complement existing COVID-19 vaccines. These peptides can induce T cell responses and INF-γ production, providing long-lasting immunity against viral infections.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalFrontiers in Immunology·DateJan 13, 2022

New research sheds light on COVID-19 vaccine inequities in California

A new study from USC researchers sheds light on COVID-19 vaccine inequities in California, revealing disparities in vaccination rates among vulnerable populations. The study suggests that targeted community outreach and improved vaccine access can help reduce these disparities.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalJournal of Immigrant and Minority Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 12, 2022
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 identify antibodies that can neutralize omicron

Researchers identified antibodies targeting conserved sites on the spike protein, showing promise against future variants. Antibodies from vaccinated individuals retained some activity, while those with prior infection had reduced effectiveness.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalNature·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 27, 2021

A new “epitope” for universal influenza vaccines

Researchers identify a previously overlooked site on the HA protein, known as the 'anchor epitope', which can neutralize a wide range of influenza strains. This discovery has significant implications for the development of universal influenza vaccines and antibody therapies.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalNature·DateDec 23, 2021

mRNA vaccines highly effective at preventing death from COVID-19, less effective at preventing infection

Researchers found that mRNA vaccines were highly effective (86%) in preventing SARS-CoV-2-related deaths among vaccinated individuals, especially in the elderly population. However, vaccine effectiveness against infection was lower (69%) and decreased with increasing age and comorbidity burden.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 20, 2021
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

West African nations need to ramp up COVID-19 vaccination 10-fold

Despite low vaccine uptake, West Africa needs to boost vaccination efforts to achieve population-level immunity. To reach 50%, 60%, and 70% coverage after 9, 12, and 18 months, vaccination speeds must increase by 4, 7, and 10 times the current pace.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Global Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 14, 2021

A longer-lasting COVID vaccine? UCLA study points the way

Researchers at UCLA have identified rare T cells capable of targeting a protein found in SARS-CoV-2 and other coronaviruses. By adding a fragment of this protein to vaccines, they hope to create a longer-lasting immune response and increase protection against new variants. This breakthrough could lead to more effective COVID-19 vaccines.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 10, 2021

Protein region on COVID’s viral spike senses temperature, drives seasonal mutation patterns

Researchers identify a molecular culprit for COVID-19's seasonal nature, finding a galectin-like structure on the spike protein that responds to external seasonal patterns. This discovery could help predict future mutations and potentially pave the way for new therapeutics or vaccines.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalMethods of Microbiology and Molecular Biology·DateDec 8, 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.

The number of SARS-CoV-2 infections among vaccinated people could be overestimated unless appropriate diagnostic tests are used, says ISGlobal study

Research team discovered mRNA vaccines induce antibodies recognizing Spike and N protein fragments, potentially leading to misclassified breakthrough infections. The study suggests using multiple viral antigens for accurate detection of vaccine effectiveness.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalTranslational Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 18, 2021

Machine learning IDs mammal species with the potential to spread SARS-CoV-2

A new study used machine learning to predict the zoonotic capacity of 5,400 mammal species, identifying those at high risk of transmitting SARS-CoV-2. The model, which combined data on biological traits with ACE2 receptor information, predicted 72% accuracy and identified numerous additional species with potential to transmit the virus.

SourceCary Institute of Ecosystem Studies·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 16, 2021

New approach provides potential vaccine and treatment for Alzheimer’s

Researchers have discovered a promising new treatment and vaccine for Alzheimer's disease by targeting the toxic form of amyloid beta protein. Both the antibody-based treatment and the protein-based vaccine reduced Alzheimer's symptoms in mouse models, offering hope for potential transformation in patient lives.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 14, 2021

New target for COVID-19 vaccines identified

Researchers have discovered a new target for COVID-19 vaccines that could complement existing vaccines by inducing an immune response against 'replication proteins', essential for the viral cycle. The approach may lead to the creation of a pan-coronaviruses vaccine protecting against SARS-CoV-2 and other coronaviruses.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature·TypeObservational study·DateNov 10, 2021

Change in vaccination strategy averted outbreak of urban yellow fever in São Paulo State, scientists say

An updated vaccination strategy is credited with averting an outbreak of urban yellow fever in São Paulo State, according to research published in Scientific Reports. The study found that the virus spread rapidly, reaching cities never affected before, and that a high number of cases were reported in areas with low vaccination coverage.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 8, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Needle-free COVID-19 vaccine shows promise

Researchers at University of Queensland successfully protected mice from COVID-19 using a US-developed vaccine candidate delivered via a pocket-sized, pain-free applicator. The vaccine produced strong immune responses and neutralized multiple variants, including UK and South Africa variants.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 29, 2021

Studies reveal what makes the Delta variant so infectious

The Delta variant is the most infectious known to date due to its ability to fuse with cells quickly and efficiently. Researchers found that Delta's spike protein has a unique property that accounts for its transmissibility, making it a favorable target for next-generation vaccines and treatments.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 26, 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.

NTU Singapore scientists create device that uses ‘light tweezers’ to trap and move viruses

Researchers developed a device that uses light to manipulate and isolate individual viruses, enabling precise diagnosis, treatment, and study of viruses. The device has the potential to aid in vaccine development and research on SARS-CoV-2 virus, allowing for targeted analysis of specific virus mutants.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalACS Sensors·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 26, 2021

Potential immunization strategy to protect against future coronavirus outbreaks

Researchers at Osaka University developed a vaccine that offers cross-protection against SARS coronaviruses by targeting the conserved core region of the spike protein receptor-binding domain. This approach has the potential to protect against future outbreaks, including those caused by novel viruses.

SourceOsaka University·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 20, 2021

New program can help COVID alert app improve vaccination campaigns

Researchers developed a program to target vaccinations using digital contact tracing technology, which can almost halve the number of vaccines required to bring the pandemic under control. The new program prioritizes individuals with the most contacts for vaccinations while keeping personal data private.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 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.

Scientists target next pandemic with ‘map’ to victory over viruses

Researchers developed an Internet information system, virusMED, to provide a comprehensive picture of viruses' most important regions. The database contains over 800 strains from 75 different families, including SARS-CoV-2, influenza, Ebola, and HIV-1, enabling scientists to respond quickly and effectively against the next pathogen.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·DateSep 29, 2021

MU researchers identify mutations of Delta, Delta Plus variants

Researchers identified five specific mutations prevalent in Delta Plus infections compared to Delta, highlighting the need for expanded antiviral tools. The findings provide clues on how the virus mutates and evade antibodies produced from previous COVID-19 infections or vaccinations.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of Autoimmunity·TypeMeta-analysis·DateSep 28, 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.

Mathematical constructions of COVID virus activity could provide new insight for vaccines, treatment

Researchers developed a mathematical model to study the action of SARS-CoV-2, enabling the examination of individual virus particles and their spikes. This analysis can help fine-tune prevention and treatment by providing insights into viral load, spike distribution, and cell infection potential.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalJournal of Mathematical Analysis and Applications·DateSep 23, 2021

Discovery of a universal system for transporting nucleic acids into cells

A team of researchers from IOCB Prague has discovered a new type of nanoparticles capable of safely transporting various types of nucleic acids used for therapeutic purposes into cells. The universal nature of their system sets it apart from existing solutions, allowing for efficient transport of mRNA and other RNA molecules into cells.

SourceInstitute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences (IOCB Prague)·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateSep 21, 2021

HPV vaccine safety concerns of parents

Increasing concerns about HPV vaccine safety among parents are linked to misinformation and a lack of understanding of the vaccine's benefits. Despite overwhelming scientific evidence supporting its safety, survey results indicate a growing number of parents are hesitant to vaccinate their children.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateSep 17, 2021

Biologists identify new targets for cancer vaccines

MIT researchers have found that vaccinating against certain cancer proteins can boost the overall T cell response and help to shrink tumors in mice. The study identifies specific neoantigens that, when targeted with a vaccine, can reawaken dormant T cell populations and lead to tumor regression.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalCell·DateSep 16, 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.

As more US adults intend to have covid vaccine, national study also finds more people feel it’s not needed

A national study of 75,000 US adults found a near 18 percentage point increase in those willing to get vaccinated, but also a rise in skepticism among certain groups. Disparities persist in vaccine confidence, particularly among younger adults, non-Hispanic Black or multiple races, and lower socioeconomic status.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalAnnals of Medicine·TypeMeta-analysis·DateSep 6, 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.

Brazilian physicists create a model to predict mutations in SARS-CoV-2

Researchers created a model to estimate viral population variability using epidemiological data, predicting the emergence of novel variants. The study suggests that lack of vaccination increases mutation frequency and spread.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 26, 2021

Targeted COVID-19 vaccine outreach to marginalized populations

Researchers identified and contacted patients with cancer who could benefit from targeted nonelectronic communication regarding COVID-19 immunization. The study used an analytics-based approach to reach marginalized populations, highlighting the importance of targeted outreach in increasing vaccine uptake.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateAug 19, 2021

Antibodies block specific viruses that cause arthritis, brain infections

Researchers at WashU Medicine have identified two antibodies that protect animals from disease caused by alphaviruses, which could form the basis of treatments or serve as a template for a universal vaccine. The antibodies worked against all tested alphaviruses and prevented arthritis and brain infections in animals.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 19, 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.

A protein-based COVID-19 vaccine that mimics the shape of the virus

Researchers developed a protein-based COVID-19 vaccine that mimics the SARS-CoV-2 virus shape, eliciting both antibody and T cell responses. The vaccine, using polymersomes decorated with multiple copies of the receptor binding domain antigen, shows promise for longer-lasting immunity.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Central Science·DateAug 11, 2021

Vaccine target for devastating livestock disease could change lives of millions

Scientists have identified a promising vaccine target for animal African trypanosomiasis (AAT), a disease causing significant economic impact on livestock in Africa and South America. The vaccine candidate showed long-lasting protection against infection in mice, offering a potential solution to the devastating effects of AAT.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalNature·DateMay 27, 2021
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.

Prioritizing who gets vaccinated for COVID-19 saves lives

A study by University of California, Davis researchers found that prioritizing vaccination for vulnerable populations like seniors and essential workers can reduce deaths, infections, and years of life lost by 17-44%. The optimal strategy depends on the outbreak conditions, including vaccine supply and transmission rates.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 2, 2021

A step toward a universal flu vaccine

A new study describes a vaccine that triggers an immune response against an influenza protein segment rarely mutated by the virus, raising the possibility of effective protection against seasonal and pandemic strains. The vaccine uses nanoparticles coated with flu proteins to train the immune system to create desired antibodies.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalCell Systems·DateOct 7, 2020

Investigational breast cancer vaccine plus immune therapy work well in tandem

A new vaccine targeting HER2-positive breast cancers has been shown to work effectively in combination with immune checkpoint inhibitors, resulting in pronounced tumor reduction and long-term tumor-free survival. The study found that the vaccine primes the immune system, allowing the checkpoint inhibitor to rally T-cells to action.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateJul 30, 2020

Russian trolls on Twitter polarized vaccination during 2016 election cycle

A new analysis found that Russian trolls used fake persona types to discuss vaccination on Twitter during the 2016 US election cycle. The researchers identified nine types of troll personas and found that they targeted specific political groups with pro- and anti-vaccination messages.

SourceAnnenberg Public Policy Center of the University of Pennsylvania·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateMar 31, 2020
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.

Inoculating against the spread of viral misinformation

Researchers examined over 500 vaccine-related ads on Facebook and found that a small group of anti-vaccine ad buyers targeted specific audiences, while pro-vaccination ads were often rejected due to Facebook's policies. The study highlights the need for social media platforms to balance free speech with public health concerns.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalVaccine·DateNov 14, 2019

Detection of oral HPV DNA in teen, young adult females

Researchers detected oral HPV DNA in 6.2% of teen and young adult female participants, with detection decreasing over time since becoming sexually active. The study suggests that the HPV vaccine is less effective against certain types of oral HPV in vaccinated individuals compared to those who are fully unvaccinated.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateOct 25, 2019

Exciting new vaccine targets killer disease TB

Researchers have developed a new type of vaccine targeting tuberculosis, providing substantial protection against the deadly disease. The early-stage vaccine was shown to be effective in pre-clinical laboratory settings and demonstrated its ability to stimulate the immune response in the lungs.

SourceCentenary Institute·JournalJournal of Medicinal Chemistry·DateAug 23, 2019
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.