Researchers predict a low risk of dengue infection among foreign visitors to the Rio Olympics, with estimates suggesting as few as three symptomatic cases and potentially no asymptomatic infections at all. The predictions are based on sophisticated mathematical modeling techniques and data from Brazil's Health Ministry.
SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalBMC Infectious Diseases·DateJun 2, 2016
A new study found that viral infections during pregnancy can lead to abnormal fetal brain development, increasing the risk of conditions like autism and schizophrenia. By manipulating serotonin levels, researchers were able to normalize fetal forebrain development and reduce this risk.
SourceUniversity of Southern California·DateJun 1, 2016
Researchers found that human activities drive disease distributions at local scales for diseases like West Nile virus and Lyme disease, while climate change impacts regional scales. The study highlights the importance of considering multiple spatial scales to understand human ecological impacts on biodiversity and disease emergence.
SourceUniversity of South Florida·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 30, 2016
Researchers identified a type of skin cell as the target of the virus in humans and found that an FDA-approved drug can block viral infection. The study establishes a new way to investigate this type of oncogenic viral infection and provides hope for better treatments.
SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateMay 29, 2016
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.
A new tool by Japanese researchers predicts the risk of Zika virus importation and local transmission for 189 countries, identifying subtropical and tropical nations as high-risk. Countries with a history of dengue and other mosquito-borne diseases face the greatest risk of infection.
Researchers found that Zika virus can infect human placental macrophages, known as Hofbauer cells, which have direct access to fetal blood vessels. This infection may allow the virus to cross the placental barrier and enter the fetal circulation, posing a risk to fetal development.
SourceCell Press·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateMay 27, 2016
A study published in JAMA Ophthalmology identified risk factors for ophthalmoscopic findings in infants born with microcephaly and presumed Zika virus infection. Infants with smaller head diameters at birth and those whose mothers reported symptoms during the first trimester were more likely to have ocular involvement.
SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateMay 26, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.
A dengue vaccine has the potential to substantially reduce disease burden if it induces long-lasting immunity. Researchers found that a durable vaccine, with booster doses, can reduce annual dengue incidence by up to 80% within five years.
SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateMay 26, 2016
A new study has found that the Zika virus is linked to a range of eye problems in Brazilian babies born with microcephaly. The researchers observed retinal lesions, hemorrhaging, and abnormal blood vessel development in three infants, which could result in severe visual impairment if left untreated.
SourceAmerican Academy of Ophthalmology·JournalOphthalmology·DateMay 25, 2016
Researchers at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center are working to develop a vaccine for the Zika virus, using their experience with West Nile virus. They aim to identify specific parts of the virus that can be targeted by the immune system, and have received $230,000 in NIH funding for their research.
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.
A team of scientists analyzed multiple studies on three well-known viral families to understand how viruses evolve and increase their genetic diversity. They found that segmented RNA viruses can replicate with a single parental line, but reassortment between viruses is limited by physical and molecular constraints.
SourceVirginia Tech·JournalNature Reviews Microbiology·DateMay 23, 2016
A new tool helps guide resource allocation for Zika virus interventions by analyzing health impact and costs. The tool suggests that proposed funds to combat Zika in the US and other countries would be cost-effective, particularly for measures reducing Zika infections.
SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateMay 20, 2016
Scientists have successfully obtained a high-resolution image of the Zika virus helicase, a key target for antiviral development. The structural information will help researchers design and develop effective small-molecule inhibitors to stop viral replication and prevent disease.
Researchers at Mount Sinai Hospital have developed a strategy to create the first broad-spectrum antiviral drug, which could provide protection against seven deadly viruses, including Nipah and Ebola. By targeting a single gene, the approach boosts immunity against viral infections.
SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 19, 2016
Meta Quest 3 512GB
Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.
A simple paper sheet can remove resistant viruses from water, improving access to safe drinking water for millions. The mille-feuille filter uses cellulose nanofibers and has a unique layered internal architecture.
SourceUppsala University·JournalMaterials Horizons·DateMay 18, 2016
Researchers found that a mutation in the protein shell of the John Cunningham polyomavirus can affect the immune system's response to the infection, leading to progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy. This discovery may help prevent the disease in autoimmune patients on immunosuppressant therapies.
SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Virology·DateMay 18, 2016
Researchers have identified an experimental antiviral drug that slows down Zika virus development in mice. The study suggests the drug may provide protection against Zika-induced symptoms and microcephaly in pregnant women.
SourceKU Leuven·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateMay 17, 2016
Researchers genetically engineered a Zika virus infectious cDNA clone, enabling rapid vaccine development and exploration of the virus's evolution and transmission. The study unlocks insights into why the Zika virus causes severe diseases and epidemics.
SourceUniversity of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateMay 16, 2016
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.
A review article by J. David Beckham highlights Zika virus's impact on global health, emphasizing the need for ongoing research to develop a viable vaccine and treatment options. The article notes that exposure avoidance through insect repellent and protective measures is currently the best approach to prevent complications.
Researchers identified two existing compounds effective against the Chikungunya virus in an animal model, bringing a potential treatment within reach. The findings also suggest that these compounds may be useful for broadly acting antivirals against emerging viruses.
SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 12, 2016
Researchers at Umea University have discovered that mosquito larvae in the Västerbotten region carry viruses that can cause infectious disease, including Sindbis virus and Inkoo virus. These findings indicate that the viruses can be transferred from female mosquitoes to their eggs.
SourceUmea University·JournalVector-Borne and Zoonotic Diseases·DateMay 12, 2016
Researchers have developed mouse models of Zika infection in pregnancy, revealing that the virus causes significant damage to the placenta and leads to fetal demise or stunted growth. High levels of viral genetic material were found in placentas, highlighting the importance of understanding how Zika affects pregnant women.
SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalCell·DateMay 11, 2016
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 developed mouse models to study Zika virus infection during pregnancy, revealing fetal brain damage and potential for long-term neurological problems. The studies also showed the importance of understanding how the virus latches onto the placenta to prevent transmission.
Researchers in China report that fetal mice infected with the Asian Zika virus strain display characteristic features of microcephaly. The study found that neural progenitor cells were initially infected, followed by neurons, and that almost all cell death occurred in neurons, not progenitor cells.
Researchers have provided direct experimental proof that the Brazilian Zika virus strain can cause severe birth defects, including microcephaly and neurological diseases. The study used mouse models, human stem cells, and cerebral organoids to demonstrate the causal effect of the Brazilian virus on health.
SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature·DateMay 11, 2016
Researchers have established mouse models of Zika virus transmission from a pregnant mouse to her fetus, demonstrating viral invasion and damage to the placenta. The studies reveal that Zika virus can cause congenital problems, including fetal death, by breaching the placental barrier.
The Brazilian Zika virus strain causes significant damage to mouse fetuses, leading to cell death and impaired growth. In vitro experiments confirm the virus's lethal effects on human nervous system cells, mirroring the development of congenital malformations like microcephaly.
SourceUniversity of Sao Paulo Scientific Outreach Unit·JournalNature·DateMay 11, 2016
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.
A new study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine found that excessive alcohol use can accelerate liver damage in people living with hepatitis C. The research suggests that comprehensive approaches to care are needed for these patients, including increased diagnosis and effective interventions to reduce alcohol use.
SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateMay 10, 2016
Researchers at Harvard University developed a rapid and portable test for Zika virus that can detect the virus in serum or saliva samples at lower concentrations than previously possible. The test has the potential to improve upon key limitations of currently available options and enable mass monitoring of outbreaks.
Researchers have discovered how Zika virus blunts brain development by hijacking the human immune system. The study found that activating a specific protein called TLR3 triggers genes that block stem cell differentiation and lead to increased cell suicide.
SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateMay 6, 2016
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.
A study published in PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases describes a suitable small animal model for testing ZIKV interventions. The A129 mouse model accumulates virus in the brain and other tissues, exhibiting symptoms similar to those in humans.
SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateMay 5, 2016
A study by Helmholtz Munich researchers found that viral respiratory tract disorders during the first six months of life significantly increase the risk of children developing type 1 diabetes. The infection localization and timing were key factors in determining the increased risk.
SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalJAMA·DateMay 4, 2016
A new USC study has found that mother's hepatitis B can support chronic infection in children, leading to a potential cure. The research, published in Immunity journal, suggests that removing 'traitor' cells from the liver's immune system may be key to clearing the virus.
SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalImmunity·DateMay 3, 2016
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 study suggests that current vaccines provide only partial protection against the G5 strain of Japanese encephalitis virus, and natural infection with a different strain may not offer protection. The findings indicate that an emerging crisis in South-East Asia is possible, warranting further research on vaccines.
SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateMay 3, 2016
A study of 295,420 infants in Bavaria found increased T1D risk associated with respiratory tract infections between 2-9 months and 3-5.9 months of age. Early exposure to viral infections may impair immune system response, suggesting a crucial first half-year of life for autoimmunity development.
Researchers found swollen posterior cervical or axillary lymph nodes, fatigue, and enlarged spleen to be effective predictors of mono. Persistent symptoms lasting three to four weeks also characterize the illness, according to Dr. Mark Ebell.
SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalJAMA·DateMay 2, 2016
Genomic analysis of Ebola virus samples from Liberia in June 2015 indicates a re-emergence of a persistently infected source, highlighting the risk of disease flare-ups even after an outbreak is declared over. The study's findings suggest that the virus replicates at a lower rate during persistent infections.
SourceUS Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 29, 2016
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.
Researchers found that topoisomerase 1 inhibitors suppress inflammation in mice, potentially treating sepsis and other immune disorders. These drugs have shown promise in rescuing mice from a lethal inflammatory response caused by bacterial infections, suggesting a new approach to controlling acute infections.
SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalScience·DateApr 29, 2016
A recent study published in PLOS Pathogens identifies a host gene involved in the formation of Hepatitis C virus particles. The gene, ABHD5, regulates the efficiency of virus assembly and release from human host cells. High levels of ABHD5 expression lead to fewer lipid droplets, while lower levels result in their accumulation.
The study details the transmission of Zika virus through mosquitoes and human-to-human contact, as well as its association with neurological disorders and birth defects. Researchers emphasize the need for antiviral agents and vaccines to combat the outbreak.
SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateApr 27, 2016
New research confirms Zika virus was present in Haiti and possibly earlier, contradicting early theories on its spread in the Americas. The discovery sheds light on the virus's history and suggests a more complex spread than initially thought.
SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateApr 26, 2016
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.
Scientists at TGen tracked the likely origins and dispersal of Valley Fever using genomic analysis technologies, revealing a history spanning 2 million years. The study identifies two distinct species of the fungus Coccidioides and estimates their divergence dates, providing insights into future outbreak tracking.
SourceThe Translational Genomics Research Institute·JournalmBio·DateApr 26, 2016
Brain-region-specific organoids were used to model Zika virus exposure, showing the virus prefers to infect neural stem cells and causing cell death. The technology has potential as a preclinical testing ground for therapies against Zika.
Research at the University of Bristol reveals that plant viruses can alter leaf surface properties to attract insects like greenfly. Infected leaves reflect less polarized light, making them more visible to bugs.
SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 21, 2016
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.
Research finds that infants develop strong antibody responses to RSV F and G proteins after infection, while adult immunity weakens over time. The study suggests that future vaccines should include G proteins to boost anti-G responses.
A new Yale-led study finds that older adults are more susceptible to flu due to a reduced antiviral response, leading to increased inflammation and damage. Researchers propose targeting inflammation to combat flu in vulnerable patients.
Researchers develop a broad-spectrum antiviral by targeting both viral surfaces and human cells, potentially avoiding drug resistance. The new approach, using a modified polymer, shows promise in lab testing and animal models without toxic effects.
SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalMacromolecules·DateApr 20, 2016
Researchers have discovered a novel host defense mechanism that protects cells from viral infection by sequestering virions near the nucleus. This discovery has implications for new drug discovery and therapeutic gene delivery, and may lead to improved strategies for rAAV-based gene therapy.
SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalHuman Gene Therapy·DateApr 20, 2016
The new study found that higher levels of antibody against neuraminidase protein were better predictors of protection against flu infection and its side effects. Participants with high levels of HA antibodies experienced lower incidence of mild-to-moderate influenza, but not necessarily less severe symptoms.
SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalmBio·DateApr 19, 2016
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.
A new mouse model developed by researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Veterinary Medicine enables the study of Zika virus infection and its effects on the brain. The model, which lacks key immune system components, allows for the testing of vaccines and antivirals against the virus.
SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateApr 19, 2016
Scientists at the University of Wisconsin-Madison have created a mouse model to study Zika virus, allowing researchers to test vaccines and antivirals while understanding the virus's effects on human brains. The model, lacking key immune system defenses, shows the virus causes severe pathology in brain tissue.
SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateApr 19, 2016
A clinical trial of the experimental Ebola drug TKM-130803 has shown that it does not improve survival in adults with severe Ebola infection. Despite this, the study suggests that the drug may have a benefit for patients with less severe disease.
SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateApr 19, 2016
A recent study by Duke-NUS Medical School scientists has revealed the Zika virus structure and identified potential sites to target with therapeutics. The findings suggest that destabilizing the virus's structure may help reduce disease severity or limit transmission.
SourceDuke-NUS Medical School·JournalNature·DateApr 19, 2016
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 study in mice reveals how antiviral immune response alters brain activity, impairing neuronal firing in the hippocampus and causing depressive-like behavior. The CXCL10/CXCR3 signaling pathway acts as a bridge between rising interferon levels and changes in neuronal activity, explaining mood changes.
Researchers from Inserm and Aix-Marseille University have confirmed that the ZIKA virus can be transmitted sexually. Genetic analysis showed a 100% correlation between the virus forms present in a man who contracted the virus in Brazil and a woman who had never traveled to an epidemic area but had sexual relations with him.
SourceINSERM (Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale)·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateApr 15, 2016
A recent study re-affirms the use of interferon alpha as an effective treatment for patients with Hepatitis delta virus, a severe form of viral hepatitis. The research found that 35% of patients who responded to this therapy achieved sustained suppression of the virus and had favorable outcomes.
SourceEuropean Association for the Study of the Liver·DateApr 15, 2016
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.
A surface mutation in canine parvovirus (CPV) allows it to infect hosts of different species, including wild forest-dwelling animals like raccoons. This critical step increases the virus's ability to spread.
SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of Virology·DateApr 14, 2016
Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) infection can cause abnormal brain development in the fetus by activating a key signaling pathway. Studies have found that HCMV substantially reduces the rate of neurons generated by neural stem cells.
Salk Institute scientists have developed a new reagent to map the brain's complex network of connections, 20 times more efficient than the previous version. The improved tool allows researchers to visualize neural circuitry and learn more about conditions like motor diseases and neurodevelopmental disorders.
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.
Researchers analyzed data and samples from 364 patients with acute skin rash, detecting ZIKV RNA in 119 blood samples. The study found the virus was introduced to Brazil from Asia, with at least some cases transmitted locally through mosquito bites or person-to-person contact.
SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateApr 12, 2016