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Research shows actions to prevent pandemics cost 5% of lives lost every year from emerging infectious diseases

A new study suggests that implementing primary pandemic prevention actions, such as better surveillance and wildlife management, can reduce the economic costs of emerging infectious diseases by up to 10%. These actions have a substantial co-benefit of preventing carbon dioxide emissions and conserving water supplies.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalScience Advances·TypeMeta-analysis·DateFeb 4, 2022
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.

Preventing pandemics costs far less than controlling them

A new study suggests that preventing pandemics could save around 1.6 million lives and reduce mortality costs by $10 trillion annually by investing just 5% of the estimated annual economic losses associated with human deaths from COVID into environmental protection and early-stage disease surveillance.

SourceDuke University·JournalScience Advances·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 4, 2022

Cover crops help squash squash their pathogens

A recent study found that cover cropping can reduce the population of Pseudomonas syringae, a common bacterial pathogen affecting agricultural crops. The researchers also discovered an increase in beneficial microbes such as Sphingomonas and Methylobacterium, which have been used as biocontrol agents against pathogens.

SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalPhytobiomes Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 1, 2022

Lung research suggests new way to detect, monitor lung diseases

Researchers found that higher monocyte counts are linked to early signs of injury and scarring on lung imaging among community-dwelling adults. This suggests that hyperactive monocytes may contribute to lung injury at the early stages of interstitial lung disease.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateFeb 1, 2022

European report reveals a massive treatment gap and disparities in osteoporosis care

A new European report reveals a massive treatment gap and disparities in osteoporosis care, with significant economic burden and projected increases in fragility fractures. The report emphasizes the need for improved service provision and uptake, particularly in countries with high disease burdens.

SourceInternational Osteoporosis Foundation·JournalArchives of Osteoporosis·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 1, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Rural residents tend to hold fatalistic beliefs and perceive more cancer-related information overload than urban residents

A study published in Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention found that rural residents are more likely to think fatally about cancer and feel information overload compared to urban adults. Lower education levels were associated with increased fatalism and information overload.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalCancer Epidemiology Biomarkers & Prevention·DateJan 28, 2022

Schools and the pandemic: Simulation model allows for safe operation

Researchers developed a school simulation model that shows how the virus spreads in different settings and calculates the effectiveness of measures against its spread. The model reveals that elementary and lower secondary schools can keep reproduction rates below 1 with classroom ventilation, wearing masks, and class size reduction.

SourceComplexity Science Hub·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 27, 2022

Using the eye as a window into heart disease

Researchers developed an AI system that can analyze retinal scans to identify patients at high risk of a heart attack over the next year. The system uses deep learning techniques and achieves an accuracy of 70-80%, revolutionizing the way patients are screened for signs of heart disease.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalNature Machine Intelligence·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 25, 2022
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.

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.

NIH awards $170 million for precision nutrition study

The NIH is awarding $170 million to clinics and centers for a precision nutrition study that will develop algorithms to predict individual responses to food and dietary routines. The Nutrition for Precision Health study will recruit 10,000 participants from the All of Us Research Program.

SourceNIH/All of Us Research Program·DateJan 20, 2022

Remdesivir for COVID-19 found to reduce need for mechanical ventilation: RCT

A randomized controlled trial found that remdesivir reduced the need for mechanical ventilation in hospitalized patients with COVID-19. The study involved 1282 patients and showed that those treated with remdesivir were able to come off oxygen and ventilators sooner than those receiving standard care.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJan 19, 2022

Towards a better understanding of foot-and-mouth disease

Biologists at the University of Leeds created high-resolution images of the foot-and-mouth disease virus, revealing fibril structures that play a key role in replication. These findings could lead to new antiviral treatments for diseases caused by the virus.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalCommunications Biology·DateJan 17, 2022

Researchers identify a set of cellular receptors in humans and other species for the eastern equine encephalitis virus, other members of the alphavirus family

A new study identifies a set of cellular receptors for eastern equine encephalitis virus and other alphaviruses shared across mosquitoes, humans, and animals. The researchers tested a decoy molecule that successfully prevented infection and slowed disease progression in cell and animal models.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 14, 2022

Face masks cut distance airborne pathogens could travel in half, new study finds

Researchers at the University of Central Florida found that face masks can reduce airborne pathogens' travel distance by more than half, suggesting they can effectively prevent airborne diseases. The study's findings could aid in managing responses to pandemics like COVID-19.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 12, 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.

Study reveals how triclosan, likely found in toothpaste, is triggered to harm the gut

A new study by the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and an international team finds that triclosan triggers gut inflammation in mice. The researchers identified specific bacteria and enzymes that drive this damage, but also developed a microbiome-targeted inhibitor to block triclosan processing, preventing colitis.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 10, 2022

Reducing air pollution could lower dementia risk

A new study found that reducing air pollution can lower dementia risk among older women by decreasing their likelihood of developing dementia. The benefits were consistent despite differences among participants in age, geographic area, socioeconomic background, and other factors.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateJan 10, 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.

Orphanhood declines with rise in HIV antiretroviral therapy and male circumcision

Research found marked decreases in orphanhood, especially double orphanhood, among adolescents in Rakai, Uganda, corresponding with the rise of antiretroviral therapy and male medical circumcision. The study suggests that HIV combination prevention reduces mortality among adults and orphanhood among their adolescent children.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalThe Lancet HIV·DateDec 29, 2021

Reduce frailty to lower dementia, study finds

A large-scale new study found that frailty was a strong risk factor for dementia, even among people at high genetic risk, and that it can be modified through a healthy lifestyle. Over 10 years, dementia was detected in 1,762 participants, with those who were frail before diagnosis having a much higher risk.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalJournal of Neurology Neurosurgery & Psychiatry·TypeObservational study·DateDec 21, 2021

Heart disease-protective diabetes drug not used equitably, study finds

A recent study found significant inequities in the use of GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RA), a medication typically used for treating diabetes, among different racial and ethnic groups. The study, published in JAMA Health Forum, showed that Black patients were 19% less likely to have a GLP-1 RA prescription compared to white patients.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Health Forum·DateDec 17, 2021

New study associates mask laws to reduction of COVID-19 deaths

Countries without face mask mandates experienced significantly higher COVID-19 deaths per million than those with mandates, according to a new study. Masks provided a supplementary layer of protection that could prevent unnecessary deaths.

SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 15, 2021

New discovery on how omega-3 fatty acids can reduce atherosclerosis

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet discovered that omega-3 fatty acids activate the GPR32 receptor, which reduces inflammation in blood vessels and prevents atherosclerosis. This breakthrough discovery paves the way for new strategies to treat and prevent cardiovascular disease using omega-3 fatty acids.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 15, 2021
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.

New Wilderness Medical Society guidelines may help reduce tick-borne illness

The Wilderness Medical Society has developed clinical practice guidelines for reducing tick-borne illness, emphasizing low-risk interventions in resource-limited settings. Lyme disease accounts for nearly 70% of reported cases, with other TBIs like anaplasmosis and spotted fever rickettsiosis also on the rise.

SourceElsevier·JournalWilderness and Environmental Medicine·TypeSystematic review·DateDec 14, 2021

Debilitating human parasite transmitted via dogs eating fish

Researchers found that in 2020, 93% of Guinea worms detected worldwide were in dogs in Chad. Dogs eating infected fish carry the parasite larvae, which means they maintain the life-cycle and humans can still catch the disease.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeObservational study·DateDec 14, 2021

Critical new funding for dementia project

Dr. Mario Masellis' international team is receiving $320,198 in funding to examine the interplay between genetic, demographic, and cardiovascular factors on dementia risk. The project aims to improve management and prevention of dementia, ultimately reducing its impact worldwide.

SourceBrain Canada Foundation·DateDec 14, 2021

Are scientists homing in on a cure for Parkinson’s disease?

Researchers at the University of Bath have optimised a peptide that prevents alpha-synuclein misfolding, a key feature of Parkinson's disease. The new molecule, 4654W(N6A), has shown significant promise in lab experiments and could lead to the development of a disease-modifying treatment.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalJournal of Molecular Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 9, 2021

Warning signs of sight loss could be identified before vision deteriorates

Researchers have found that people with genetic risk factors for age-related macular degeneration (AMD) have thinner retinas and photoreceptors, even if they haven't yet lost their sight. This early detection could lead to earlier treatment and lifestyle changes to prevent vision loss.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalScientific Reports·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 9, 2021
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

What can 35-year-old stool samples tell scientists about HIV/AIDS?

A new study links the composition of gut microbiome before infection to HIV susceptibility and progression. Men who contracted HIV in the early days of the pandemic had a greater relative abundance of pro-inflammatory vs. anti-inflammatory gut microbes, which contributed to their increased risk of developing AIDS.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalMicrobiome·DateDec 8, 2021

A faster “code breaker” to analyze human DNA

Researchers at the University of Missouri have developed a free online resource that speeds up data analysis of human genomes three times faster than current methods. This enables scientists to see how an individual's genome makes them susceptible to different diseases in different ways, ultimately reducing associated costs and increas...

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·DateDec 8, 2021

Regular exercise reduces the risk of and death from pneumonia, study suggests

A large-scale study found that regular physical activity significantly reduces the risk of developing pneumonia and dying from it. The research, led by the University of Bristol, analyzed data from over 1 million participants and showed a strong association between exercise and reduced risk of pneumonia-related death.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalGeroScience·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 7, 2021

LSU Health New Orleans review reveals alarming increase in physician burnout

A recent review reveals alarming increase in physician burnout among diagnostic radiologists, with causes including lack of control, social isolation and technological demands. Possible solutions include heightened engagement, dedicated reading room assistants and mindfulness techniques.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalCurrent Problems in Diagnostic Radiology·TypeLiterature review·DateDec 3, 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.

New way of identifying early risk of cardiovascular disease

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet found a strong link between the apoB/apoA-1 ratio and cardiovascular disease. Individuals with higher ratios had a greater risk of severe cardiovascular disease, including myocardial infarction and stroke.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalPLOS Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateDec 1, 2021
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.

Manchester scientists produce new antibiotics by gene editing

Researchers from the University of Manchester have discovered a new way to manipulate key assembly line enzymes in bacteria using CRISPR-cas9 gene editing. This approach could lead to the production of improved antibiotics with potentially improved properties, addressing the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 29, 2021

Benefits of COVID-19 vaccination: An estimated half a million lives saved in the WHO European Region since end of 2020

A recent study estimates that COVID-19 vaccination prevented almost 470,000 deaths among people aged 60 years and older across Europe. The authors found that early implementation of vaccination was associated with the largest reduction in expected deaths.

SourceEuropean Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC)·JournalEurosurveillance·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 25, 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.

Latte lovers rejoice! Study reveals drinking coffee could lower the risk of Alzheimer’s disease

A long-term study has revealed that drinking higher amounts of coffee may make you less likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease. The study found an association between coffee and several important markers related to Alzheimer’s disease, including executive function and amyloid protein accumulation in the brain.

SourceEdith Cowan University·JournalFrontiers in Aging Neuroscience·TypeSurvey·DateNov 23, 2021

New evidence that mass treatment with Ivermectin has halted spread of river blindness in two Nigerian states; Separate study shows drug’s potential to interrupt West Nile Virus transmission in US

Mass treatment with Ivermectin has halted the spread of river blindness in two Nigerian states, Plateau and Nasarawa, marking a major milestone in disease elimination efforts. Separate studies also show the potential for Ivermectin to reduce West Nile Virus transmission by mixing it into bird feed.

SourceAmerican Society of Tropical Medicine & Hygiene·JournalAmerican Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene·DateNov 18, 2021

Human history and migration of disease: Study tracks spread of young-onset heart arrhythmia across continents

A new study tracked the spread of a genetic mutation that causes young-onset heart arrhythmia across continents over centuries. The research found that the mutation was passed down from Northern Europe to other parts of the world through migration, and identified a specific gene, KCNQ1, as the cause of the disease.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 8, 2021
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.

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.

Study shows vaccine protects dogs against Valley fever

A new vaccine has shown significant protection against Valley fever in dogs, offering hope for a potential human vaccine. The study found that two doses provided high levels of protection against the fungal disease.

SourceUniversity of Arizona Health Sciences·JournalVaccine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 26, 2021

Corporate influence linked to slow implementation of public health policies globally

A study found that only a third of public health policies had been fully implemented globally by 2020, with low-income countries and those with high corporate influence showing slow progress. The researchers suggest that corporate influence cancelled out the positive relationship between democracy and implementation, highlighting the n...

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalThe Lancet Global Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 19, 2021

USC researchers find that interrupting a high-fat, high-calorie diet with regular cycles of a fasting-mimicking diet helps mice live a longer, healthier life

Researchers found that regular cycles of a fasting-mimicking diet in mice helped counteract the negative effects of a high-fat, high-calorie diet. The study suggests that this diet may have potential as 'medicine' to prevent obesity and heart disease.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalNature Metabolism·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 14, 2021
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.

Measles: activation of two different innate immune responses spotted

Infection with measles virus triggers the activation of both RNA and DNA virus immune responses. The virus affects mitochondrial growth and division, causing their fusion and release of mitochondrial DNA into the cytoplasm. This leads to the activation of the cGAS immune response, which is also triggered by DNA viruses.

SourceInstitute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateOct 14, 2021