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Protecting crops: Researchers open up new avenue to combat a widespread plant virus

Researchers at Martin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg have developed a new avenue to combat the Cucumber mosaic virus by directing the plant's natural defences. The RNA-based active agents have shown high efficacy in laboratory experiments, protecting 80-100% of treated plants from infection.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalNucleic Acids Research·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 18, 2025
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.

Tunnel-building virus: How Zika transmits from mother to fetus

Researchers at Penn State discovered that Zika virus builds tiny tunnels called tunneling nanotubes to transport material needed to infect nearby cells, including in placental cells. This allows the virus to cross the placental barrier without raising alarm in the immune system.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateMar 17, 2025

Current antivirals likely less effective against severe infection caused by bird flu virus in cows’ milk

Scientists at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital found that frequently used flu antivirals do not work well against the H5N1 avian influenza virus in cows' milk. The study showed that reducing infection risk through methods like avoiding raw milk and minimizing dairy farm workers' exposures may be more effective interventions.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalNature Microbiology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 17, 2025

RSV hospitalization risk among older adults linked to age and certain risk conditions

A study found that RSV hospitalization rates increase progressively with age among older adults in Spain, with those over 85 years old facing the highest risk. Certain chronic conditions, such as blood cancer, COPD, and cardiovascular disease, also significantly increase the risk of hospitalization.

SourceEuropean Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC)·JournalEurosurveillance·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 13, 2025

Study quantifies loss of disability-free years of life from COVID-19 pandemic

A new study published in PLOS Medicine estimates that the COVID-19 pandemic cost Europe 16.8 million disability-free years of life between 2020 and 2022. The study found that more than half of these lost years would have been lived without disability, highlighting the pandemic's long-term impact on older populations.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateMar 11, 2025
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Genes combined with immune response to Epstein-Barr virus increase MS risk

Research finds that certain viral antibodies and genetic risk factors can increase MS risk, with elevated antibody levels combined with a specific gene variant associated with strong increased risk. The study also identifies potential biomarkers for early diagnosis.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 10, 2025

Study: Smartwatches could end the next pandemic

Researchers at Aalto University and others have developed a model that shows smartwatches can accurately detect viral infections several days before symptoms appear. This early detection can lead to significant reductions in disease transmission and could potentially stop a pandemic before it starts.

SourceAalto University·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateMar 4, 2025
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.

Influenza vaccine offers moderate protection against influenza A virus strains dominant in most European countries during the 2024/2024 season, according to early estimates

The influenza vaccine provided moderate protection against influenza A strains, but strong protection against influenza B. The vaccine was most effective in preventing severe disease among children and adolescents, with a high effectiveness rate.

SourceEuropean Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC)·JournalEurosurveillance·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 27, 2025

New 3D imaging approach reveals intricate steps of virus assembly

A new integrated 3D imaging approach has revealed exquisite detail of the virus assembly process used by herpes simplex virus during replication. The research identified previously unknown functions of HSV-1 structural proteins and provided insights into the unmutated gene's usual role in viral assembly.

SourceeLife·JournaleLife·DateFeb 25, 2025

Chung-Ang University uncovers porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus’s impact on swine immunity

Researchers analyzed protein-coding RNA transcripts from single cells and lung fluid of infected pigs, monitoring immune cell alterations triggered by PRRSV strains of varying virulence. They found that high-virulence PRRSV caused severe lung damage and immune imbalance, while less virulent strains led to delayed lung damage with fewer...

SourceChung Ang University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 24, 2025
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.

As dengue spreads, researchers discover a clue to fighting the virus

A new study led by La Jolla Institute for Immunology scientists found that children who experience multiple dengue virus infections develop protective T cells, which help fight the virus. These T cells appear to be key to dengue virus immunity and may inform the development of a vaccine that prompts a similar response.

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalJCI Insight·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 24, 2025

New discovery could help protect against influenza

A preclinical trial has uncovered how beta-glucan can 'reprogram' immune cells to prevent lung inflammation and reduce the risk of illness and death from influenza. The study's findings highlight beta-glucan as a promising therapy for influenza and other emerging viral pathogens.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNature Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 17, 2025

New study sheds light on the causes of fevers of unknown origin in sub-Saharan Africa

A new retrospective study found that nearly half of patients with fever of unknown origin in sub-Saharan Africa had a detectable pathogen, including bacterial strains and hemorrhagic fever viruses. The study highlights the need for strengthened laboratory capacity to improve diagnosis and treatment.

SourceGerman Center for Infection Research·JournalJournal of Infectious Diseases·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 11, 2025
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.

Tackling infections in pediatric HSCT: A risk-adapted approach

A new study reveals that 93.2% of pediatric allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) recipients experience infections post-transplant, with viral infections being the most common. The study identifies key risk factors and highlights the importance of personalized approaches in infection management.

SourceChongqing Medical University·JournalPediatric Discovery·DateFeb 6, 2025

New University of Minnesota study reveals how Sudan virus binds to human cells

A recent study published in Communications Biology reveals that the Sudan virus binds to human cells through a specific protein called NPC1, which enables it to attach with nine times greater affinity than Ebola. This discovery may contribute to the high fatality rate of the Sudan virus.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota Medical School·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 4, 2025

New tool can detect fast-spreading SARS-COV-2 variants before they take off

Researchers developed a powerful tool to detect SARS-CoV-2 variants with high transmission potential, pinpointing exact mutations driving spread. The model focuses on spike protein and other parts of the virus, enhancing ability to bind human cells and evade immune systems.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 29, 2025
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

UQ team finds relative of deadly Hendra virus in the US

Researchers at the University of Queensland have identified a new henipavirus, Camp Hill virus, in shrews in Alabama, USA. The discovery suggests these viruses may be more globally distributed than previously thought, with implications for human health and vaccine development.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalEmerging Infectious Diseases·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 28, 2025

T cells rise up to fight infections in the gut

Researchers at La Jolla Institute for Immunology discovered that tissue-resident memory CD8 T cells rise up to fight infections in the small intestine, using spatial transcriptomics technology. These immune cells are split between villi and crypts, with progenitor-like cells replenishing effector T cells.

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 22, 2025

Scientists uncover structure of critical component in deadly Nipah virus

Researchers at Harvard Medical School and Boston University have mapped the structure of the Nipah virus's polymerase complex, a key piece of its machinery. This discovery provides a detailed understanding of how the pathogen multiplies inside hosts and could inform the design of treatments.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 20, 2025

Influence of COVID-19 infection experience on fear

Researchers analyzed data from a nationwide survey to understand the relationship between COVID-19 infection experiences and fear levels. The study found that mild infection experiences alleviated fear, while severe symptoms worsened it, and that fear decreased over time.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalBMJ Open·DateJan 20, 2025
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.

Uprooting Cassava Disease: scientists identify causes of two devastating diseases

Researchers have identified the pathogens and diagnostic tests for the two diseases, revolutionizing cassava disease management in Latin America, the Caribbean, and Southeast Asia. The study, published in peer-reviewed journals, marks a significant milestone in fighting the spread of these devastating diseases.

SourceThe Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 16, 2025

Peripheral blood CD4+/CD8+ t cell ratio predicts HBsAg clearance in inactive HBsAg carriers treated with peginterferon alpha

Researchers found that a lower CD4+/CD8+ T cell ratio after 12-24 weeks significantly predicted HBsAg clearance in IHCs treated with peginterferon alpha. Higher baseline percentages of CD3+CD8+ cells and lower CD4+/CD8+ ratios were also associated with improved outcomes.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalJournal of Clinical and Translational Hepatology·DateJan 16, 2025

Hepatitis E vaccination is effective in an epidemic

Researchers from UNIGE-HUG Centre and MSF successfully demonstrated the effectiveness of a hepatitis E vaccine in an outbreak in Bentiu, South Sudan. The study showed that two doses of the vaccine reduced the incidence of the disease and provided protection against severe symptoms.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·TypeNews article·DateJan 14, 2025

Bacteria produce molecules that help viruses infect competing bacteria

Researchers at Indiana University found that bacteria secrete molecules, like coelechelin, which weaken competitors' immune systems and increase their vulnerability to phage infection. This discovery highlights the potential of phage-chemical combinations in treating antibiotic-resistant infections.

SourceIndiana University·JournalNature Microbiology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 8, 2025
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.

Small antibody offers broad protection against influenza

Researchers at the University of Gothenburg have discovered an antibody-like molecule, E10, that can protect mice from various influenza viruses. The molecule targets a conserved part of the virus's surface protein shared across multiple influenza types, providing effective protection against seasonal epidemics.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 8, 2025

Update: T cells may offer some protection in an H5N1 ‘spillover’ scenario

A new study by La Jolla Institute for Immunology researchers suggests that many people may already have immune cells on standby to combat the H5N1 virus. The study found similarities between H5N1 and seasonal influenza viruses, allowing scientists to predict cross-reactive T cell responses that could help decrease disease severity.

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalmBio·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 2, 2025

Study shows role of cells’ own RNA in antiviral defense

Researchers found that cellular RNA molecules help regulate antiviral signaling by activating the MAVS signalosome. This signaling pathway is crucial for coordinating immune responses against virus invasion. The study's findings suggest a potential role for RNA-based therapeutics in combating infections and autoimmune diseases.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 19, 2024
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

“Unbreakable” Lassa vaccine shows promising results

A live-attenuated vaccine against Lassa virus has been developed and shown to be safe and 100% effective in protecting guinea pigs from the virus. The vaccine was created by modifying the genome of the virus to prevent it from causing disease, making it a promising candidate for future clinical trials.

SourceTexas Biomedical Research Institute·Journalnpj Vaccines·DateDec 18, 2024

New model for replication of BKPyV virus, a major cause of kidney transplant failure

Researchers discovered that BKPyV's large tumor antigen is expressed after the first round of cellular DNA replication, suggesting new drug targets to prevent kidney transplant failure. The study offers a possible solution by targeting host proteins required for re-replication, reducing the likelihood of virus resistance.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalPLOS Pathogens·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 6, 2024

Single mutation in H5N1 influenza surface protein could enable easier human infection

Researchers discovered a single mutation in the H5N1 virus that improves its ability to attach to human cells, potentially making it easier for humans to become infected. The study's findings stress the importance of continued genomic surveillance and public health preparedness to monitor potential genetic changes.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalScience·DateDec 6, 2024
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Preparing for the worst: Healthcare can check readiness for bird flu spread

Infectious disease experts suggest that hospitals closely monitor local and national cases of bird flu and screen patients with flu-like symptoms for contact with farm animals. Effective communication is essential for fostering trust and reducing anxiety among healthcare personnel, patients, and the public.

SourceSociety for Healthcare Epidemiology of America·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateDec 5, 2024
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.

Nanorobot hand made of DNA grabs viruses for diagnostics and blocks cell entry

Researchers at the University of Illinois have created a DNA-made nanorobot called NanoGripper that can pick up COVID-19 viruses for rapid detection and block viral particles from entering cells. The device also has potential applications in cancer treatment and preventive medicine.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalScience Robotics·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 27, 2024

Study reveals cause of common cancer immunotherapy side effect

Researchers found impaired PD-1 activity can significantly reduce antibody diversity and quality in memory B cells. This may explain the increased rates of infection reported in patients with cancer receiving checkpoint inhibitor therapy.

SourceGarvan Institute of Medical Research·JournalImmunity·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 26, 2024
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.

Scientists implicate a novel cellular protein in hepatitis A infection

Researchers at UNC Health Care have discovered a little-known protein, PDGFA-associated protein 1 (PDAP1), that plays a crucial role in the replication and infection of hepatitis A virus. The protein is used by the virus to exploit the host cell's stress response, allowing it to produce its own proteins necessary for replication.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 21, 2024

Cigarette smoke alters microbiota, aggravates flu severity

Chronic cigarette exposure in mice leads to altered gut and oropharyngeal microbiota, aggravating flu severity. The study suggests that the smoker's microbiota plays a significant role in respiratory disease and viral infection.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmSystems·DateNov 20, 2024

UVA study uncovers key heart responses to viral infection

Researchers at UVA discovered the heart reacts to viral infections in one of three ways, with specific gene patterns indicating healing or damage. This finding may lead to better treatments for people at risk of heart failure and other chronic conditions linked to viral infections.

SourceUniversity of Virginia School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalScience Advances·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 19, 2024

Monitoring and managing ranaviruses in amphibians, reptiles and fish

New information and guidance on monitoring and managing ranaviruses are provided in the second edition of Ranaviruses: Emerging Pathogens of Ectothermic Vertebrates. Ranavirus infections have been confirmed in over 177 species, causing mass die-offs and affecting biodiversity.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture·DateNov 18, 2024
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.

Key influenza-severity risk factor found hiding in plain sight on our antibodies

A study by Stanford Medicine researchers has identified a critical link between the composition of antibodies and the severity of influenza infection. The discovery highlights the importance of a specific sugar molecule on antibodies in determining whether an individual becomes mildly ill or severely ill from a flu infection.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalImmunology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 13, 2024

New findings on animal viruses with potential to infect humans

Researchers identified a protein in mammals that welcomes arteriviruses into host cells to start an infection. The team also found that an existing monoclonal antibody protects cells from viral infection, providing potential therapeutic strategy.

SourceOhio State University·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 31, 2024

Trick and Treat: Black cat's prey harbored a new, exotic virus

Researchers discovered a new type of jeilongvirus in a Florida mouse, which can infect humans and non-human primates, posing a risk of serious illness. The virus is genetically distinct from others and can cause disease in various species.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalPathogens·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 29, 2024
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 software flags emergence of COVID variants

Researchers developed a new surveillance technique to track COVID-19 diversity using genomic data, predicting variant emergence with high accuracy. The software can forewarn public health officials of impending outbreaks, enabling timely responses and more effective disease monitoring.

SourceAmerican Museum of Natural History·JournalGenome Research·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 29, 2024