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A new approach to medical guidelines, taking inspiration from Wikipedia

Researchers developed a novel 'Wikiguideline' approach to establish medical guidelines, leveraging online collaboration and high-quality data. The method was tested using osteomyelitis, an infection of the bone, and found sufficient data for only two recommendations: increasing oral antibiotic therapy and limiting therapy duration.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeSystematic review·DateMay 10, 2022
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.

Usefulness of monitoring IgG against Antigen-85b for prediction of tuberculosis development from latency: From an elephant tuberculosis analysis

Researchers developed a new test method to detect tuberculosis (TB) progression from latent infection in elephants using IgG antibodies against Antigen 85B. High levels of IgG against ESAT6/CFP10 remained constant, while IgG against Ag85B increased before disease onset and declined with treatment.

SourceNiigata University·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 8, 2022

Next time let's be more prepared: Local COVID-19 prevention system need work

A regional COVID-19 prevention system in Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan did not substantially alter user behavior despite being associated with some positive health behaviors. The study aimed to investigate factors that make these systems effective and identify areas for improvement.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalEnvironmental Health and Preventive Medicine·DateMay 6, 2022

New study finds climate change could spark the next pandemic

A new study predicts climate change will lead to a viral jump to humans, increasing the risk of the next pandemic. Rising temperatures will have a devastating impact on bats, allowing them to travel long distances and share viruses with unprecedented rates.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 28, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Study reveals genetic diversity of a particularly problematic pathogen

Researchers analyzed 451 bacterial strains of C. difficile, identifying 9,924 distinct gene clusters and categorizing them into 176 genetically distinct groups. The study provides new insights into the genetic diversity and evolution of this pathogen, shedding light on its virulence factors and antimicrobial resistance determinants.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 27, 2022

Airport malaria: Rare but with possible serious implications

Two fatal cases of airport malaria were reported in Belgium, highlighting the need for healthcare awareness near airports. The most likely route of transmission was through an imported infectious exotic Anopheles mosquito that was possibly brought via the international airport or military airport.

SourceEuropean Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC)·JournalEurosurveillance·DateApr 25, 2022

Unvaccinated people increase risk of SARS-CoV-2 for vaccinated people even when vaccination rates are high

A new study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal found that unvaccinated individuals pose a significant risk to vaccinated people, even when vaccination rates are high. The research suggests that mixing between unvaccinated and vaccinated populations can lead to substantial new infections among the vaccinated.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 25, 2022

Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology researchers detect coronavirus particles with “slow light”

Researchers at Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST) have developed a new technique to easily visualize viruses using an optical microscope, called the Gires-Tournois immunoassay platform. The platform uses 'slow light' technology to detect coronavirus particles by slowing down light that gets reflected around them.

SourceGIST (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 21, 2022
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.

Your mental health may impact your chances of breakthrough COVID

A new study found that people with psychiatric conditions, especially those over 65, have a higher risk of breakthrough COVID. The researchers tracked data from over 250,000 VA patients and found increased risks for breakthrough infections among those with substance abuse, psychotic disorders, bipolar disorder, adjustment disorder, and...

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·DateApr 14, 2022
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

COVID-19 household transmission is high, with children being a significant source of spread: study

A recent study found that COVID-19 spreads extensively in households, with approximately 50% of household members infected from the first-infected individual. Children were less likely to spread the virus but equally likely to become infected as adults, highlighting their potential role in transmission.

SourceUniversity of Ottawa·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·TypeSurvey·DateApr 12, 2022

Double-stranded RNA induces bone loss during gum disease

Researchers at Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology discovered that double-stranded RNA molecules can activate the immune system response leading to bone deterioration in gum disease. The study found that dsRNA triggers the differentiation of osteoclasts, cells responsible for breaking down bone, leading to increased bone ero...

SourceTokyo University of Agriculture and Technology·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateApr 8, 2022

COVID-19 alters levels of fertility-related proteins in men, study suggests

A recent study published in ACS Omega analyzed protein levels in semen of men who recovered from COVID-19 and found significant reductions in sperm count, motility, and normally shaped sperm. The researchers also detected changes in fertility-related proteins such as semenogelin 1 and prosaposin.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Omega·DateApr 7, 2022

HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis works but needs regular testing

PrEP users in Germany experienced infrequent testing, with 26.3% not following recommended frequencies for HIV, STI, and renal function testing. Regular testing is crucial to prevent missed diagnoses and manage asymptomatic STIs, particularly in MSM populations.

SourceEuropean Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC)·JournalEurosurveillance·TypeSurvey·DateApr 7, 2022
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.

New genetic clues could be key to saving sea turtles from mysterious disease

Researchers at UCF have identified 116 new gene variants in sea turtles that may protect them from a tumor-causing disease. The discovery sheds light on the role of MHC class I alleles in potentially safeguarding sea turtles against fibropapillomatosis.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 6, 2022

Century-old malaria parasite puzzle solved as ape origin traced

Researchers have discovered that P. malariae, a malaria parasite infecting humans, originated in African apes before evolving to infect people. This breakthrough reveals the evolutionary links between the two species and sheds light on how the parasite adapted to infect humans.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 6, 2022
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.

Set back on the way to meet SDG targets: Progress in tackling tuberculosis reversed by the pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a setback in global efforts to meet SDG targets for tackling tuberculosis. TB mortality plateaued in Europe between 2019 and 2020, likely due to disruptions in essential TB services. Researchers highlight the need for continued commitment and investments to prevent further progress being reversed.

SourceEuropean Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC)·JournalEurosurveillance·DateMar 24, 2022
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.

A call for community self-governance on digital sequence information sharing

A recent viewpoint article highlights the need for open access to digital sequence information (DSI) to facilitate real-time responses to global crises. The authors propose community self-governance as a solution to enable international collaboration, improve benefit-sharing mechanisms, and promote equitable sharing of DSI benefits.

SourceAmerican Institute of Biological Sciences·JournalBioScience·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMar 16, 2022

Intermingling between populations may contribute to HIV spread

A study in Botswana found that HIV transmission occurs primarily within and between same-age communities, rather than between distant communities. Community-based HIV testing and treatment can effectively curb the spread of the disease if targeted at high-risk populations.

SourceeLife·JournaleLife·DateMar 8, 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.

Fungal infections cost U.S. $6.7B in a year

A new study found that fungal infections result in significant healthcare spending, with direct costs of $6.7 billion and secondary infections contributing to a total of $37.7 billion in U.S. national health care expenses. Fungal infections doubled hospital costs, patient stays, and mortality risk.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalOpen Forum Infectious Diseases·DateMar 1, 2022

WHO European Region: Diphtheria immunisation success but still sporadic cases

The WHO European Region has seen significant success in diphtheria immunization, with high coverage rates and only a few reported cases. However, suboptimal surveillance systems and inadequate laboratory capacity may contribute to the persistence of sporadic cases.

SourceEuropean Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC)·JournalEurosurveillance·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 24, 2022
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 babies born with Zika virus syndrome at greater risk of death in first three years of life than those born without

A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that babies born with Congenital Zika Syndrome are at an 11x greater risk of dying during their first three years of life compared to those born without. The study highlights the importance of protecting women, especially those pregnant or of child-bearing age, against ...

SourceLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateFeb 23, 2022

A new way to disarm antibiotic resistance in deadly bacteria

Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin found a new approach to impairing antibiotic resistance in deadly bacteria by inhibiting the protein DsbA. This method could potentially restore the effectiveness of existing antibiotics, addressing a global health crisis responsible for millions of deaths annually.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournaleLife·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 22, 2022

Why natural killer cells react to COVID-19

A new study by Karolinska Institutet reveals that natural killer cells respond to a specific peptide on the surface of infected cells. This peptide triggers an activation response in NK cells carrying the NKG2A receptor, allowing them to kill virus-infected cells.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalCell Reports·DateFeb 21, 2022

Save the date! Cover ATS 2022 in San Francisco!

The ATS 2022 International Conference will take place in San Francisco from May 15-18, featuring a gathering of scientists and clinicians in pulmonary, critical care, and sleep medicine. The conference will showcase accelerated research and clinical applications across lung diseases, including COVID-19.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·DateFeb 16, 2022
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.

A potentially longer-lasting cholera vaccine

Researchers have created a new type of cholera vaccine consisting of polysaccharides displayed on virus-like particles, generating long-lasting antibody responses in mice. The vaccine shows promise as a next-generation cholera vaccine, potentially replacing current vaccines that last only 2-5 years.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Infectious Diseases·DateFeb 16, 2022

Starting antiretroviral therapy early essential to battling not one, but two killers

Researchers found that starting combined antiretroviral therapy against simian immunodeficiency virus two weeks after infection significantly reduced chronic immune activation, SIV replication, and latent TB reactivation. This study contributes to the growing evidence on the complex interaction between HIV and tuberculosis.

SourceTexas Biomedical Research Institute·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateFeb 15, 2022
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.

CityU scientist invents novel droplet manipulation method “WRAP”

Researchers at City University of Hong Kong have developed a novel droplet manipulation method called WRAP, which can transport micro-sized droplets using electromagnets or programmable electromagnetic fields. The method overcomes challenges in traditional magnetic actuation, such as contamination from added magnetic particles.

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 11, 2022

Hospital admission with liver cirrhosis: highest mortality rate of all chronic diseases

A nationwide study in Germany found that liver cirrhosis has the highest mortality rate among chronic diseases, with 0.94% of hospital admissions affected. The study also showed a decline in mortality rates due to improvements in Hepatitis C treatment, but an increase in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease cases.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalThe Lancet Regional Health - Europe·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 11, 2022
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.

Discovery could help finetune immunity to fight infections, disease

Scientists at Washington State University have discovered a novel theory that the innate immune system can respond differently to specific pathogens. This quality, known as immunological specificity, is driven by the nervous system and could provide a basis for finetuning an experimental treatment to fight infection.

SourceWashington State University·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 8, 2022

Quick COVID breathalyzer could allow mass screening in public places

Researchers have developed a rapid and accurate breathalyzer test that can diagnose COVID-19 in under 5 minutes, identifying asymptomatic carriers. The handheld device uses surface-enhanced Raman scattering sensors to detect volatile organic compounds exhaled by infected individuals.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Nano·DateFeb 2, 2022
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.

Urgent investment needed in deadly disease

A global systematic review found serious complications and a 15% fatality ratio among patients with non-typhoidal Salmonella invasive disease. The study highlights the need for urgent investment in vaccine development and research into prevention methods to tackle this emerging neglected infectious disease.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·TypeSystematic review·DateJan 31, 2022
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.

Fast, cheap test can detect COVID-19 virus’ genome without need for PCR

Researchers at University of Washington developed a fast, cheap test for COVID-19 that combines speed of antigen tests with accuracy of PCR tests. The Harmony COVID-19 test detects genetic material from SARS-CoV-2 virus with 97% accuracy and provides results in under 20 minutes.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 24, 2022

Bid to discover how immune systems recognise fungal invaders

The four-year programme will investigate the chemical signatures that trigger immunity in fungal infections, which kill an estimated 1.6 million people worldwide annually. By understanding these signatures and how fungi disguise them, researchers hope to uncover the origins of antifungal immunity.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·DateJan 21, 2022

Mange outbreak decimated a wild vicuña population in Argentina

A study published in PLOS ONE found that a mange outbreak in San Guillermo National Park, Argentina decimated the wild vicuña and guanaco populations, with nearly three-quarters of the animals lost between 2017-18. The authors suggest domestic llamas introduced to the site may have triggered the outbreak.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateJan 21, 2022

Predicting Long COVID at initial point of COVID-19 diagnosis

Researchers have identified several factors that can predict the development of long COVID, including the presence of certain autoantibodies, pre-existing Type 2 diabetes, and low cortisol levels. The study found that administering antivirals early in the disease course may also prevent some long COVID symptoms.

SourceInstitute for Systems Biology·JournalCell·DateJan 20, 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.

Persistent T cell response to omicron after infection and vaccination

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet found that memory T cells formed after previous infection or mRNA vaccination can still recognize the omicron variant, suggesting protection against severe disease. The study also suggests booster immunization may provide benefits beyond neutralizing antibodies.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNature Medicine·DateJan 19, 2022

Chung-Ang University researchers shows a gold-paved path towards faster COVID-19 diagnosis

Researchers created a novel molecular diagnostic platform that can detect COVID-19 genes after only 8 cycles of amplification, significantly reducing the time required for diagnosis. The new SERS-PCR platform uses gold nanoparticles to produce high-sensitivity signals, providing an important tool in the fight against the pandemic.

SourceChung Ang University·JournalBiosensors and Bioelectronics·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 19, 2022

Light ‘em up! Instant disinfection using a nanosecond pulsed laser

Researchers at Nagoya City University developed a novel approach for surface disinfection using harmless visible light, inactivating bacteria and viruses. The study's findings suggest that photothermal effects caused by pulsed laser irradiation can instantly destroy pathogenic microorganisms.

SourceNagoya City University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 17, 2022
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.

Citizen science helps nurture our health through nature

A University of South Australia study suggests that nature-based citizen science projects can alleviate stress and isolation, while improving mental, emotional, and physical health benefits. By engaging with natural environments, individuals can experience lower stress levels, improve their wellbeing, and feel connected to a community.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·TypeSystematic review·DateJan 16, 2022

Measuring impact of drugs on global health can aid in identifying shortcomings

A new framework evaluates medicines' impact on global health, calculating the impact of drugs used to treat diseases like TB, HIV/AIDS, malaria, and NTDs. The Global Health Impact Index model saves about 62 million disability-adjusted life-years, equivalent to saving almost a year of life for 1% of the world's population.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalTropical Medicine & International Health·DateJan 11, 2022