Scientists have recovered a genome of Treponema pallidum from 5,500-year-old human remains in Colombia, pushing back the genetic record of this pathogenic species by over 3,000 years. The discovery sheds new light on the evolutionary history of treponemal pathogens and their occurrence in human populations.
Public Health Alerts provide concise, data-driven information on disease outbreaks and urgent health events. The new series, launched by NEJM Evidence and CIDRAP, offers expert-reviewed reports to support public health evidence-based care.
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.
Researchers at UAB have published a study suggesting one dose of benzathine penicillin G is as effective as the three-injection regimen at treating early syphilis. The study found that one dose is sufficient to treat patients, reducing time and inconvenience associated with multiple injections.
Researchers funded by the National Institutes of Health found that a single injection of benzathine penicillin G successfully treated early syphilis just as well as the three-injection regimen used by many clinicians. Biological markers showed that 76% of participants in the single-dose group had a serologic response to treatment, comp...
A large-scale study found strong links between maternal infections and adverse outcomes in babies born in Australia's Northern Territory. Congenital syphilis tripled the risk of preterm birth, while gonorrhoea increased the risk of stillbirth. The study highlights the need for more changes in STI testing during pregnancy.
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.
A recent study in the Netherlands found 15% of men who have sex with men and transgender individuals recently used doxycycline as post- or pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), highlighting an increase in informal use. The high intention to use PrEP among the population raises concerns about potential antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and chan...
The USPSTF recommends early, universal screening for syphilis infection during pregnancy to prevent congenital syphilis. Untreated syphilis can cause premature birth, low birth weight, and stillbirth in the fetus.
Researchers identified a new way to fight infections like Lyme and syphilis by disrupting the bacteria's 'motor', preventing it from spreading through the body. The findings could have wide-ranging impacts on the treatment of infections in the future as concern about antibiotic-resistant strains grows.
A new study has found that rates of chlamydia and syphilis plummet among people prescribed doxycycline for STI prevention in routine clinical care. The study used pharmacy data to determine which HIV PrEP users filled prescriptions for doxyPEP, with 2,253 people receiving the medication within its first year of availability.
The rollout of doxycycline as a prevention strategy for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) has shown promise in reducing syphilis and chlamydia rates, but its effectiveness on gonorrhea is limited. Close monitoring for antimicrobial resistance is necessary to ensure the long-term efficacy of doxy PEP.
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.
Researchers have analyzed ancient DNA from Mexico, Chile, Peru, and Argentina to determine the origin of syphilis. The study found that syphilis-like infections occurred in the Americas for millennia and supports an American origin for the disease.
A new study reveals that US college students who use dating apps are more likely to engage in risky sexual behaviors, including unprotected sex and multiple partners. The study suggests a vicious cycle where dating app use contributes to increased risks and vice versa.
A new study shows that syphilis patients labeled as penicillin allergic but low risk can safely have their allergy label removed, avoiding treatment failure and negative health consequences. This delabeling helps to improve treatment outcomes and reduce healthcare utilization.
A study found that doxycycline post-exposure prophylaxis (doxy-PEP) did not significantly alter the overall composition of gut bacteria in individuals who took it for six months. However, the researchers noted signs of resistance building against tetracycline, a class of antibiotics to which doxycycline belongs.
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.
Researchers have conducted the largest genomic survey of the syphilis bacterium to date, correlating genetic data with clinical information to identify potential targets for a vaccine. The study found differences in bacterial strains between continents, but also similarities that suggest a global vaccine could be effective.
A NIH-supported study found that optional emergency department screening increased syphilis diagnosis by 24.4% among nearly 300,000 encounters, particularly among pregnant people. The strategy can help close current healthcare gaps in syphilis diagnosis and treatment.
The NIH has awarded grants to develop novel diagnostic tools for syphilis, aiming to simplify the testing process and enhance public health response. Advanced molecular techniques, such as nucleic acid amplification systems, are being explored to improve understanding of infant immune responses and diagnose the infection more accurately.
A review of research suggests that only around half of individuals feel comfortable disclosing their STI diagnosis to a partner before engaging in sexual activity. Comprehensive sex education is needed to prevent the spread of infections and support individuals with diagnosed STIs.
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.
The incidence of STIs among older adults is rising globally, with data from the US CDC showing a more than doubling of rates over the past decade. Experts say misconceptions about age and sex, as well as limited access to sexual health services, contribute to the problem.
European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control reports significant increase in STI cases across Europe, with gonorrhoea cases rising by 48%, syphilis cases by 34%, and chlamydia cases by 16%. The surge highlights the need for enhanced prevention, access to testing, and effective treatment to address this public health challenge.
Researchers have discovered genetic material of the pathogen Treponema pallidum in ancient Brazilian bones, indicating that humans suffered from diseases akin to syphilis over 2,000 years ago. This finding challenges existing theories about the spread of syphilis by Spanish conquistadors and suggests that treponematoses were already pr...
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.
A new study by Northwestern University found that syphilis rates are nearly twice as high among transgender women and Black gay and bisexual men compared to white gay men. The study suggests that preventing and treating syphilis requires outreach to key populations, particularly those from communities of color.
Researchers use genomic surveillance to identify distinct sexual networks for syphilis transmission in England, highlighting the presence of drug resistance. The study reveals information beyond standard epidemiological surveillance data, aiding public health strategies to break transmission chains.
A new dictionary provides a comprehensive overview of Shakespeare's language, revealing words with reduced mental ability and plant hybrids. The Arden Encyclopedia of Shakespeare's Language offers insights into the linguistic thumbprints of plays and characters, as well as the networks of character interaction.
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.
Researchers found two antimicrobial agents that are more effective in treating the disease-causing agent Treponema pallidum in a laboratory setting. The discovery opens new doors in understanding the disease and finding ways to prevent infection and intervene.
A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that doxycycline can reduce the incidence of syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia by two-thirds when taken within 72 hours after condomless sex. The research also highlighted a slight increase in antibacterial resistance, emphasizing the need for further exploration.
Research found that STI and HIV testing rates dropped significantly in March 2020, while positive test rates rose. The decline was likely driven by public health recommendations limiting in-person visits during the pandemic.
A Rutgers-led study identified a four-step plan to detect and treat more sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in HIV patients. The plan includes asking about sexual behaviors and testing at-risk or symptomatic patients during routine doctor visits.
The USPSTF recommends screening for syphilis in asymptomatic, nonpregnant individuals who have ever been sexually active. Syphilis cases increased from a record low in 2000 to 11.9 cases per 100,000 population in 2019.
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.
Congenital syphilis cases are on the rise in California's small and medium-sized counties. A new study found that poverty and low education levels contribute to the spread of the disease. The researchers call for improved access to prenatal services to address this growing public health crisis.
The WHO European Region saw a decrease in reported cases of syphilis, gonorrhoea and chlamydia, but data availability varies widely among non-EU/EEA countries. Georgia had the highest syphilis case rate, while EU/EEA countries had lower rates.
A new poll shows that most teens and young adults know it's possible to catch or spread a sexually transmitted infection by having unprotected oral sex, but over half underestimate the level of that risk. Young people also call for more education about the risks of oral sex and normalization of protection through popular culture.
A global systematic review and meta-analysis found that nearly 8% of men who have sex with men (MSM) are infected with syphilis worldwide, significantly higher than the general population. The study highlights the urgent need to address this high-risk group's unique challenges in accessing healthcare services.
Researchers found decreases in reported cases of chlamydia and syphilis, but a rise in syphilis cases, with weekly numbers for STIs inversely rising or falling with COVID-19 case reports. The pandemic may have led to fewer people seeking medical attention for STI symptoms.
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.
Research reveals an increase in acute bacterial infections, including gonorrhoea and secondary syphilis, despite reduced attendances at STI centres during the pandemic. Non-acute cases of genital warts and Molluscum Contagiosum fell, highlighting the need for ongoing screening and services.
Researchers found treponematoses in ancient human remains from Finland, Estonia, and the Netherlands, dating back to the 15th-18th century. This suggests that syphilis may have originated or developed in Europe before Columbus' voyages to America.
A new study in Scientific Reports reveals that medieval European plague victims were infected with both the plague and a disease related to syphilis, called yaws. This discovery challenges the prevailing theory that syphilis originated in the New World and instead suggests that yaws may have contributed to the outbreak in Europe.
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.
Researchers found that syphilis bacteria alter a single gene, called tprK, which provides instructions for a protein on its surface. This change allows the bacterium to evade the immune system and resist eradication, contributing to its ability to hide in the body for decades.
A new study has found that syphilis infection rates are significantly higher in dialysis patients compared to the general population. The study, published in the Clinical Kidney Journal, screened over 759,000 patients and found a rate more than three times that of the general population.
Experts from NIAID urge biomedical research community to refocus on STI research, emphasizing the need for innovative diagnostics, therapeutics, and vaccines. The authors highlight the critical need to address antimicrobial resistance and cooperation among researchers, healthcare providers, and community clinics.
A study by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control reveals a consistent rise in syphilis cases across Europe, mostly affecting men who have sex with men. The ECDC analysis highlights the need for public health control measures, including case finding, management, and educational activities to combat this trend.
The NIH has awarded four Cooperative Research Centers to develop vaccines against syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia. The centers will focus on identifying vaccine candidates that could lead to safe and effective treatments for these diseases.
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.
Researchers analyzed temporal and demographic patterns in gestational syphilis and mother-to-child-transmission of syphilis in a Brazilian region. They found no annual endemic period, but increased cases during February and a failure in the notification system.
The USPSTF reaffirms the importance of syphilis screening in pregnant women due to the increased risk of congenital syphilis. Untreated syphilis can lead to stillbirth, neonatal death, and significant illness in infants.
A study of pediatric emergency department data found that only 27.7% of young women with pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) were screened for syphilis, and 22% were screened for HIV. Screening rates varied significantly by hospital, with some facilities testing as little as 2% of high-risk patients.
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.
Researchers have successfully cultured Treponema pallidum, the bacterium that causes syphilis, using a novel method. The breakthrough, published in mBio, could lead to improved understanding of the disease and the development of new treatments.
Researchers analyzed human remains from Colonial Mexico to determine the evolutionary history of syphilis. They found that two subspecies of T. pallidum, associated with syphilis and yaws, can cause similar symptoms, suggesting a more complex evolutionary history than previously thought.
Researchers have recovered ancient syphilis genomes from skeletal remains in Mexico, distinguishing between the subspecies that cause syphilis and yaws. The findings shed new light on the evolutionary history of syphilis, suggesting a complex history that challenges previous hypotheses.
Syphilis researchers have identified exterior proteins on the bacteria that could serve as vaccine targets, marking a breakthrough in the development of a potential vaccine. The discovery was made by UConn Health researchers using computer modeling and testing techniques.
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.
Researchers tested Dual Path Platform (DPP-POCT) Syphilis Screens tests in rural clinics and a hospital in the Solomon Islands, showing high patient satisfaction and ease of use. The point-of-care test can provide results in under half an hour with no electricity or special equipment needed.
Researchers found an association between certain risk-related terms on Google Trends and subsequent syphilis trends reported to the CDC. The Twitter-based model predicted state-level trends in syphilis with 90% accuracy, allowing for early warning systems to be developed.
A randomized controlled trial found nearly doubling of STI testing in a group using internet-accessed testing compared to face-to-face appointments. E-STI testing should be considered as a complement to existing services, increasing uptake and treatment rates.
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.
A study found low compliance with CDC recommendations for HIV and syphilis screening in at-risk adolescent patients in US emergency departments. The lack of adherence was attributed to inadequate clinician education, emphasizing the need for enhanced training.
A University of Maryland expert has diagnosed Francisco Goya with a rare autoimmune syndrome or syphilis after suffering from severe illness and hearing loss in 1793. She notes that Goya's condition would have been treatable today.
Researchers found that antiretroviral drugs used to treat HIV infection may increase susceptibility to syphilis by boosting immune system activity and leading to more sexual partners. This could explain the rise in new cases of syphilis among gay/bisexual men over the past decade.
A new UBC study found that medications used in highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) for HIV may be reducing the body's immune response to certain diseases, including syphilis. Researchers suggest this could be contributing to the recent surge in syphilis cases worldwide.
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.
A recent study reveals that syphilis has re-emerged globally, primarily caused by a pandemic strain cluster named SS14-Ω. This cluster exhibits high levels of antibiotic resistance, particularly to azithromycin, posing a significant public health concern. The researchers hope that their findings will contribute to a better understandin...
The USPSTF recommends screening for syphilis in asymptomatic, nonpregnant individuals at increased risk due to high prevalence rates. Early detection and treatment can lead to substantial health benefits, including preventing late-stage disease and transmission of HIV.
A recent study highlights the persistence of syphilis in sub-Saharan Africa, where rates have remained higher than in other regions. The research suggests that common risk factors, such as HIV prevalence and connected sexual networks, may be underlying causes of the spread of syphilis in these populations.
The study found that measles death rates were 197 times greater in developing countries than in developed countries, while syphilis death rates were 33-45 times higher. Ebola mortality rates were also significantly higher in developing countries, with 4,447 deaths compared to just two in developed nations.
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.