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Immune cells consult with neighbors to make decisions

Researchers discovered that immune cells count their neighbors before activating to avoid overreactions. This new understanding could lead to improved cancer immunotherapies and treatments for autoimmune diseases.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 13, 2020

New method predicts individual response to Ebola infection

A team at Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health has developed a new method that accurately predicts human disease outcomes based on gene expression in individuals infected with Ebola. The model uses machine learning and was tested on a data set collected from Ebola patients in western Africa, confirming its accuracy.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalCell Reports·DateFeb 11, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Stroke: Macrophages migrate from the blood

Researchers discovered that shortly after a stroke, macrophages from the blood attack dead and adjacent healthy brain tissue. This process was hindered by inactivating the Cxcr4 gene, which acts like an antenna for inflammatory processes in the brain.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateFeb 11, 2020

High levels of PFAS affect immune, liver functions in cape fear river striped bass

Researchers have discovered high levels of PFAS chemicals in the blood of Cape Fear River striped bass, which are associated with altered immune and liver functions. The study found elevated concentrations of PFOS and Nafion byproduct 2, particularly in smaller or younger fish, highlighting the unique properties of these chemicals.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalEnvironment International·DateFeb 7, 2020
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.

Development of the immune system varies according to age, location and anaemia

A new study found that immune system composition changes significantly during early childhood, with anaemia potentially reducing vaccine responses in low-income countries. The research, published in Science Translational Medicine, analyzed blood samples from children in Mozambique and Tanzania.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateFeb 5, 2020

Malaria: Vaccine clinical trial for pregnant women yields promising results

A vaccine clinical trial for pregnant women with malaria has shown promising results, demonstrating safety and an appropriate immune response. The PRIMVAC vaccine was found to be well-tolerated and induced antibodies capable of recognizing the Plasmodium falciparum parasite.

SourceINSERM (Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale)·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateFeb 4, 2020

Feeding bluebirds helps fend off parasites

New research shows that feeding bluebirds can significantly impact parasitic nest flies and improve nestling survival. The study found that supplementing birds with food reduces the parasite load and improves antibody levels, which help kill the parasites. The timing of feeding is also crucial, with early feeding benefiting young birds...

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateFeb 4, 2020
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.

Math models add up to improved cancer immunotherapy

Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital developed mathematical models to predict how tumors may respond to immunotherapy and how adding other anti-cancer drugs could lead to improved treatment. The models suggest that normalization of the tumor microenvironment, including blood supply, could improve treatment efficacy.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 3, 2020

B-cell enrichment predictive of immunotherapy response in melanoma, sarcoma and kidney cancer

Researchers found that B-cell markers were associated with improved overall survival in patients with advanced melanoma and soft-tissue sarcomas. B cells located within specialized immune-cell clusters (TLS) were predictive of response to checkpoint blockade, suggesting a dynamic interaction between immune components.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalNature·DateJan 15, 2020

BPA activates immune response in mice that passes down through generations

Researchers found BPA exposure triggers an immune response that passes down through generations, leading to increased risk of allergic asthma. The study suggests that even after removal from the environment, descendants may still inherit changes in DNA expression that cause aberrant immune system activation.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Proteome Research·DateJan 15, 2020
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.

How dying cells prevent dangerous immune reactions

Scientists from the German Cancer Research Center have identified a receptor on murine immune cells that activates a protective mechanism preventing unwanted immune responses against the body's own tissues. Dectin-1 binds to annexins on dying cells, suppressing the immune response and preventing autoimmune reactions.

SourceGerman Cancer Research Center (Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, DKFZ)·JournalCell Reports·DateJan 8, 2020

Host sensor AhR commits quorum sensing espionage to fight infection

A host sensor called AhR helps the immune system respond to bacterial infections by detecting and adapting to quorum sensing signals. This allows for tailored defense mechanisms against highly resistant pathogens like Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateDec 19, 2019

Regulator of plant immunity tagged

KAUST scientists have identified MAP4K4 as a key player in plant immunity, essential for proper responses to environmental pathogens. The discovery reveals targets in a molecular pathway that could be manipulated by crop breeders to make plants more resistant.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalEMBO Reports·DateNov 26, 2019
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.

New vaccine protects from widespread, costly infection, mice study shows

A newly developed experimental vaccine has demonstrated over 80% effectiveness in protecting mice from succumbing to Staphylococcus aureus infection. The vaccine targets specific proteins found on the bacteria and has shown promise in preventing biofilm formation, a major cause of hospital-acquired infections.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalInfection and Immunity·DateNov 11, 2019

Critical protein that could unlock West Nile/Zika virus treatments identified

Researchers at Georgia State University have identified the critical protein Z-DNA binding protein 1 (ZBP1), which plays a significant role in triggering an immune response to viral infections. The study found that ZBP1 is essential for restricting West Nile and Zika virus replication, preventing severe disease outcomes.

SourceGeorgia State University·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateNov 5, 2019
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.

Ebola antibodies at work

Researchers at the Weizmann Institute of Science and Germany's University of Cologne have identified two antibodies produced by vaccinated individuals that provide long-term immunity against Ebola. These antibodies, which target specific sites on the viral glycoprotein, demonstrate effective protection against the virus.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalNature Medicine·DateOct 10, 2019

From sleeping cell to assassin -- how immune cells work

Scientists at the University of Dundee have mapped how T lymphocytes control expression of over 9,000 proteins in response to infections and tumours. The study reveals critical discoveries on how immune-suppressive drugs work and how oxygen and nutrient environments shape immune responses.

SourceUniversity of Dundee·JournalNature Immunology·DateOct 7, 2019

New smallpox vaccine tested by USAMRIID receives FDA approval

The US FDA has approved a new smallpox vaccine called JYNNEOS, which is non-replicating and can be used to protect against both smallpox and monkeypox diseases. The vaccine developed by Bavarian Nordic was shown to have a superior immune response compared to the existing ACAM2000 vaccine.

SourceUS Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases·DateSep 30, 2019

NIH awards contracts to advance tuberculosis immunology research

The NIH has awarded contracts to establish three new centers for immunology research to accelerate progress in TB vaccine development. The program aims to develop a comprehensive understanding of the immune responses required to prevent TB infection and disease.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·DateSep 26, 2019

Study shows the biological clock influences immune response efficiency

A recent study by Nicolas Cermakian and Nathalie Labrecque found that the biological clock influences immune response efficacy in CD8 T cells. The study discovered that the strength of the immune response varied according to the time of day, with mice showing a stronger response to vaccination at certain times.

SourceMcGill University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 24, 2019
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.

New factor in the development of childhood lymphoma

A study found a germline mutation in the CD137 gene to be associated with childhood lymphoma, highlighting its key role in immune surveillance against EBV infection. The research aims to develop targeted therapeutics to stop this disease process.

SourceCeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences·JournalBlood·DateSep 18, 2019

A promising HIV vaccine shows signs of cross-protective benefits

The RV144 vaccine has shown promising results with a new study indicating it may provide protection against multiple strains of HIV. Researchers discovered that the vaccine elicited stronger immune responses, particularly in men, and was well-tolerated, suggesting potential long-term efficacy.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateSep 18, 2019

Synthetic cells capture and reveal hidden messages of the immune system

The study reveals that ectosomes, tiny vesicles containing key immune messages, can be intercepted and deciphered using super resolution microscopy. This breakthrough understanding of cellular communication has significant implications for developing therapies that shape the immune response to specific diseases.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·DateSep 17, 2019

Mumps study shows immunity gaps among vaccinated people

A study by Emory Vaccine Center and CDC found immunity against mumps virus insufficient in a fraction of college-aged people who received MMR as children. The results highlight the need for better understanding of immune response to mumps and vaccines.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 2, 2019
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.

Experiments illuminate key component of plants' immune systems

A team of biologists has shed new light on a crucial aspect of the plant immune response, revealing how plant resistance proteins trigger localized cell death. By understanding this mechanism, scientists may develop strategies for engineering disease-resistant crops.

SourceColorado State University·JournalScience·DateAug 22, 2019

The Lancet Infectious Diseases: First ever phase 1 trial of genital chlamydia vaccine finds it is safe and provokes immune response

A new chlamydia vaccine has shown promising early signs of effectiveness in a phase 1 clinical trial, provoking an immune response in all participants. The vaccine, CTH522, demonstrated improved performance with added liposomes, producing higher antibody levels and a more consistent cell-mediated immune response.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateAug 12, 2019

Existing anti-parasitic drug could offer treatment for Ebola

A new study suggests that nitazoxanide, an FDA-approved anti-parasitic drug, could potentially treat Ebola by enhancing the immune system's ability to detect the virus. The drug inhibited Ebola replication and worked by broadly amplifying the interferon pathway and cellular viral sensors.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournaliScience·DateAug 8, 2019
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 study on the immune system of plants: It works differently than expected

A new study published in The Plant Cell found that plant immune systems vary between species, contradicting previous assumptions based on Arabidopsis thaliana research. Researchers used CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing techniques to investigate the tobacco plant Nicotiana benthamiana's immune response.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateJul 15, 2019

An 'EpiPen' for spinal cord injuries

The approach demonstrated in mice enhances healing by reprogramming aggressive immune cells to work for the body, reducing inflammation and promoting regeneration. This technology could lead to new therapeutic strategies for patients with spinal cord injury and inflammatory diseases.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 11, 2019

How the mosquito immune system fights off the malaria parasite

A recent study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences shows that mosquitoes employ a multi-stage immune response to combat malaria parasites, involving a complement-like pathway and phenoloxidases. This understanding could lead to opportunities to eliminate malaria parasites in the mosquito, reducing human cases.

SourceIowa State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 10, 2019

Immune anticipation and bed bug feeding cues

Female bed bugs exhibit induced antibacterial humoral immune responses when fed regularly, with a 22% increase in longevity compared to unpredictable feeding schedules. Anticipation of mating-associated infection through feeding cues may influence reproductive immune anticipation.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 1, 2019

Childhood leukemia cannot hide from the immune system

Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital found that children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia mount a robust immune response to their cancer. The study suggests that the immune system may be able to effectively target pediatric ALL, potentially leading to new immunotherapy treatments.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJun 26, 2019
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.

New immune checkpoint explored for head and neck cancer

Researchers studying CD73, an enzyme suppressing the natural immune response, hope to block its production to help treat aggressive head and neck cancers. High levels of CD73 are associated with poor prognosis in these cancers.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·DateJun 25, 2019

Novel model for studying intestinal parasite could advance vaccine development

Researchers developed a novel mouse model of intestinal parasite infection that mimics human disease, offering protection against Cryptosporidium infection. The model uses a naturally occurring species of mouse Cryptosporidium and demonstrates the importance of T cells and interferon-gamma in immune response.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateJun 20, 2019

Julie Marchesan received the AADR Anne D. Haffajee Fellowship

Dr. Julie Marchesan, a rising young researcher, is the recipient of the $10,000 AADR Anne D. Haffajee Fellowship to support women in oral biology research. The fellowship aims to increase female representation in science and academia.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateJun 19, 2019

Gut microbiome implicated in antiphospholipid syndrome

Researchers identified Roseburia intestinalis as a gut bacterium triggering antiphospholipid antibodies in patients with antiphospholipid syndrome. The study suggests that eliminating this bacterium may help decrease antibody levels and open doors for future treatment options.

SourceHospital for Special Surgery·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateJun 18, 2019
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.

Could boosting the gut microbiome be the secret to healthier older age?

A new study by immunologists at the Babraham Institute has shown that fecal transplants from young mice can replenish and boost the gut microbiome of older mice, rejuvenating their immune system. The research suggests that targeting the gut microbiome could be a way to treat age-related symptoms and facilitate healthy aging.

SourceBabraham Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 4, 2019
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.

Dead cells disrupt how immune cells respond to wounds and patrol for infection

New research at the University of Sheffield reveals that dead cells can disrupt the normal function of immune cells, called macrophages, which are crucial for responding to wounds and patrolling for infection. The study's findings could lead to new therapies to manipulate white blood cells and accelerate healing processes.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMay 21, 2019

New HIV vaccine strategy 'pumps' the immune system

Scientists at La Jolla Institute for Immunology developed a new HIV vaccine delivery strategy that enhances the protective immune response by slowly releasing vaccine doses. This approach, called escalating dose strategy, leads to stronger and more neutralizing antibodies against the virus.

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalCell·DateMay 9, 2019

Challenging metabolism may help fight disease

Researchers at Swansea University's Medical School have found that immune cells can re-programme their metabolic pathways to provide energy and building blocks when challenged. This discovery suggests that manipulating metabolism could lead to new therapies for infectious diseases and cancer.

SourceSwansea University·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 7, 2019

Vaccine design can dramatically improve cancer immunotherapies

Researchers at Northwestern University have designed spherical nucleic acids (SNAs) that stimulate powerful anti-cancer immune responses, completely eliminating tumors in 30% of animals and improving overall survival. The study's findings highlight the importance of chemical structure and three-dimensional presentation in vaccine design.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 6, 2019
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.

Tumor-selective angiotensin blockers may improve response to cancer immunotherapy

Researchers found that combining tumor-selective angiotensin blockers with immune checkpoint blockers significantly improves breast cancer treatment in mouse models. The combination treatment normalizes the tumor microenvironment, inducing changes in gene expression and activating immunosupportive pathways.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 29, 2019