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Overcoming immune exhaustion from chronic HIV infection -- the roles of PD-L1 blockage, regulatory T cells, and viral load

A study published in PLOS Pathogens suggests that blocking the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway can increase regulatory T cell numbers and virus production, while also boosting killer T cell proliferation. The researchers found that this approach may be beneficial for HIV-infected patients, but only when combined with antiretroviral treatment.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateDec 3, 2015

Blood test may predict how quickly patients recover from surgery

A blood test can predict how quickly patients recover from surgery by identifying their unique immune state before the procedure, according to a new study. This simple test may help personalize recovery approaches and have a significant impact on perioperative medicine.

SourceAmerican Society of Anesthesiologists·JournalAnesthesiology·DateNov 19, 2015
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.

New research could help in the fight against infection, cancer and allergies

Researchers have discovered that the antigen-presenting protein MHC1 must 'wriggle' in a specific way to perform its vital functions, which could lead to new immunotherapies for diseases. The findings also have potential applications for reducing allergic reactions by understanding how additives are detected by the immune system.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 5, 2015

Vaccine against respiratory syncytial virus shows promise in early trial

Researchers have developed a new RSV vaccine candidate that has shown promising early results in young children, eliciting more antibodies than previous candidates. The vaccine uses a genetically engineered version of the virus with a deleted M2-2 protein to induce a stronger immune response.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateNov 4, 2015

How to model the immune system - 10 billion components at a time

Researchers have developed methods to overcome technical limitations in studying the immune system, allowing for investigation of interdependent components and their impact on functions at the systems level. The new book provides valuable insights into team science and the application of computational tools to model immunity.

SourceVirginia Tech·DateNov 3, 2015

Tick spit protein may trigger allergic reactions

Researchers believe that tick spit proteins, such as alpha-gal, can cause severe allergic reactions in humans. A vaccine could be created to target these proteins, potentially providing protection against tick bite allergies.

SourceCell Press·JournalTrends in Parasitology·DateSep 25, 2015

FSU researcher: Change in environment can lead to rapid evolution

A study published in Nature found that guppies evolved 135 genes in response to a new environment, with most changes affecting biological processes like metabolism and immune function. However, the initial response was often opposite to the eventual evolutionary change, suggesting that genes can adapt quickly in the short term.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalNature·DateSep 2, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

The timing of sleep just as important as quantity

Researchers at Washington State University discovered that altering the timing of an animal's sleep can have a significant impact on its immune response and overall sleep quality. The study found that mice with disrupted circadian cycles had blunted or overactive immune responses, making them more susceptible to illness.

SourceWashington State University·DateSep 1, 2015

How to become a T follicular helper cell

A team of researchers at the La Jolla Institute for Immunology has identified LEF-1 and TCF-1 as master regulators that control the fate of T follicular helper cells. These transcription factors pre-program CD4+ T cells to respond to TFH induction signals, making them crucial for inducing a strong and lasting antibody response.

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalNature Immunology·DateJul 30, 2015

Scientific curiosity and preparedness for emerging pathogen outbreaks

The article highlights Stanley Perlman's career journey from studying mouse viruses to researching human coronaviruses like SARS and MERS. His work demonstrates the importance of basic research in understanding virus interactions with the immune system, which can inform strategies for preventing or treating diseases.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateJul 14, 2015
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.

Ebola vaccine trial begins in Senegal

A clinical trial testing an Ebola vaccine developed on a new cell line is underway in Senegal, aiming to provide a rapid response to outbreaks. The trial uses two vaccines, ChAd3-EBO Z and MVA-EBO Z, which have shown excellent safety profiles and promise for low-cost mass production.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·DateJul 14, 2015

The role of the microbiota in preventing allergies

The study demonstrates how the microbiota acts on the balance of the immune system, specifically blocking type 2 immune responses that lead to allergic reactions. By stimulating type 3 cells, which coordinate phagocytosis and killing of microbes, the researchers provide an innovative therapeutic approach for allergy treatment.

SourceInstitut Pasteur·JournalScience·DateJul 10, 2015

Towards an HIV vaccine

Researchers characterize immune proteins that recognize and eliminate virus, providing insight into developing a potent Nab response against different HIV subtypes. Studies examine the efficacy of Nabs in blocking direct cell-to-cell transmission of HIV, highlighting the importance of controlling virus replication via this pathway.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateJul 9, 2015
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.

If you look old on the outside, you're probably old on the inside

A team of researchers has found a way to measure the aging process in young adults, revealing that some people are aging three times faster than their peers. The study used biomarkers such as kidney function, liver health, and telomere length to determine biological age and pace of aging.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 8, 2015

Generic heart disease medications offer promise for Ebola treatment

Researchers report that statins and angiotensin receptor blockers, commonly used for heart disease, can stabilize endothelial cells lining blood vessels in Ebola patients. This approach may improve survival rates in infected individuals by bolstering the immune system.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmBio·DateJun 23, 2015

Protecting women from multiple sclerosis

Researchers found that innate lymphoid cells in males produce a protein that protects against the disease, while female mice remain inactive and do not produce this protein. This discovery opens up new avenues for investigation into sex-determined disease susceptibility.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalThe Journal of Immunology·DateMay 28, 2015

Designing better medical implants

MIT researchers found that larger spherical devices are better able to maintain their function and avoid scar-tissue buildup, outperforming smaller ones in tests on diabetic mice and nonhuman primates. This discovery could lead to the development of long-term implants for diabetes treatment and other diseases.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Materials·DateMay 18, 2015
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.

Children at risk for type 1 diabetes show immune response when given oral insulin

Researchers found that children given daily doses of oral insulin developed a protective immune response to the disease, which could lead to the development of a vaccine against type 1 diabetes. The study showed increased immunity with higher doses of oral insulin, suggesting a potential treatment strategy.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalJAMA·DateApr 21, 2015

Study sheds new light on a crucial enzyme for the immune response

Researchers at the IRCM have discovered a new mechanism affecting AID, a crucial enzyme for the immune response, which could lead to improved treatment for the common flu, as well as lymphoma and leukemia. The study identified a protein eEF1a that retains AID in the cell's cytoplasm, allowing it to access the nucleus and boost activity.

SourceInstitut de recherches cliniques de Montreal·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateApr 20, 2015

Worms and germs lead to better immune function

Research at Duke University Medical Center found that increasing bacterial and worm diversity in the digestive tract enhances immune function, with better responses to vaccination and increased natural antibody production. The study suggests that biome enrichment may serve as an 'immune trainer' to improve overall health.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 8, 2015

Personalized melanoma vaccines marshal powerful immune response

Researchers developed personalized melanoma vaccines that target unique mutations in each patient's tumor, increasing the number and diversity of cancer-fighting T cells. The vaccines were shown to be safe and effective in a first-in-people clinical trial, setting the stage for potential use in preventing recurrence.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalScience·DateApr 2, 2015
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.

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.

New approach may lead to inhalable vaccines for influenza, pneumonia

Researchers at UNC Chapel Hill created inhalable vaccines targeting lung diseases by modifying particle surface charge, inducing local and systemic immune responses. This novel approach may lead to improved vaccine accessibility in low-resource areas without refrigeration requirements.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 7, 2015

RUB researchers discover protein protecting against chlorine

Researchers at Ruhr-University Bochum discovered a protein called RidA that protects intestinal bacteria E. coli from immune activity caused by chlorine. In the presence of chlorine, RidA binds to other proteins, preventing them from coagulating and losing their function.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 18, 2014
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.

Seasonal flu vaccines boost immunity to many types of flu viruses

A study found that seasonal flu vaccines protect against multiple flu strains, including those not included in vaccine formulations. The researchers also discovered that exposure to birds can elicit immune responses to avian influenza viruses in humans.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmBio·DateDec 9, 2014

Seasonal flu vaccines boost immunity to many types of flu viruses

A study found that seasonal flu vaccines can induce strong immune responses against multiple flu virus subtypes, including some not included in vaccine formulations. This could provide protection against emerging pandemic strains from avian populations.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmBio·DateDec 8, 2014

Response to viral infections depends on the entry route of the virus

Researchers found that immune mechanisms triggered by viruses differ depending on entry route, with Toll pathway activated for feeding-related infections. The study suggests that understanding these differences can help find targets to block human diseases transmitted by insects.

SourceInstituto Gulbenkian de Ciencia·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateDec 4, 2014
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.

Staying ahead of the game: Pre-empting flu evolution may make for better vaccines

A team of researchers has discovered that 'back boosting' the immune system by pre-emptively vaccinating against likely future strains of the influenza virus can significantly improve vaccine effectiveness. This approach would allow for more targeted and effective vaccination campaigns, potentially saving millions of lives worldwide.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalScience·DateNov 20, 2014

The effects of poor eating habits persist even after diet is improved

Research published in the Journal of Leukocyte Biology suggests that poor eating habits alter gene expression, leading to persistent effects on the immune system and increased risk of cardiovascular disorders. Even after successful treatment of atherosclerosis, the immune system's function remains altered.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalJournal of Leukocyte Biology·DateNov 3, 2014

Gene identified for immune system reset after infection

Researchers at Duke University have discovered a key gene that regulates the immune system's transition from high alert to recovery after an infection. The finding, published in PLOS Genetics, highlights the importance of cellular homeostasis in repairing tissue damage and eliminating bacterial toxins.

SourceDuke University·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateOct 23, 2014
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Divide and conquer: Novel trick helps rare pathogen infect healthy people

Scientists at the University of Birmingham discovered how a rare fungus, Cryptococcus gattii, can infect healthy individuals by exploiting the body's immune response. The fungus triggers a 'division of labour' in its invading cells, allowing it to establish itself and cause life-threatening infections.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 17, 2014

Candidate H7N9 avian flu vaccine works better with adjuvant

A new experimental vaccine against H7N9 avian influenza prompted immune responses in 59% of volunteers who received two injections with an adjuvant booster. Without the adjuvant, immune responses were minimal regardless of vaccine dosage.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalJAMA·DateOct 7, 2014
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.

Dry roasting could help trigger peanut allergy

Researchers at Oxford University found that dry roasting peanuts causes chemical modifications that activate the immune system, leading to an allergic response. This discovery may explain the higher prevalence of peanut allergies in Western countries compared to East Asia.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateSep 21, 2014

LSU Health research discovers means to free immune system to destroy cancer

Researchers at LSU Health New Orleans have discovered that the protein Chop regulates the activity and accumulation of cells that suppress the immune response against tumors. The study found that removing Chop boosts the effectiveness of treatment, revealing it as a target for developing new immunotherapies to treat cancer.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalImmunity·DateSep 18, 2014

Intestinal bacteria needed for strong flu vaccine responses in mice

Researchers found that antibiotic treatment before vaccination impaired antibody responses in mice, while gut bacteria played a crucial role. The study's findings suggest that the microbiome could be harnessed to modulate vaccine efficacy and may explain variations in vaccine responses globally.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalImmunity·DateSep 11, 2014

How age alters our immune response to bereavement

The study found that younger people have a more robust immune response to grief, while elderly people are more likely to experience reduced immune function. The researchers suggest that hormonal supplements could be used to help individuals at risk of stress, but highlight the importance of a strong support network in managing grief.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalImmunity & Ageing·DateSep 9, 2014
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.

Brainwaves can predict audience reaction for television programming

Researchers found that brainwaves from a few individuals can accurately predict preferences of large TV audiences. The study used EEG to measure brain activity while participants watched TV shows and commercials, comparing the results to publicly available social media data and ratings from USA Today's Super Bowl Ad Meter.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 29, 2014

Brainwaves can predict audience reaction

A study at City College of New York found that analyzing the brainwaves of a few individuals can accurately predict preferences of large TV audiences. The researchers used electroencephalography (EEG) to capture brain activity while participants watched scenes from 'The Walking Dead' and Super Bowl commercials.

SourceCity College of New York·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 29, 2014

Immune response may cause harm in brain injuries, disorders

Researchers at Cleveland Clinic found that the immune system's response to protein S100B may contribute to memory impairment and cognitive dysfunction associated with conditions like chronic epilepsy and Alzheimer's disease. The study suggests that treatments targeting this autoimmune response could help alleviate symptoms.

SourceCleveland Clinic·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 24, 2014
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.

Human cells' protein factory has an alternate operating manual

Researchers at the University of Maryland have discovered a new process in human genes that can alter protein contents and functions. This process, known as programmed ribosomal frameshifting, may help the body regulate its immune response and prevent harmful side effects.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalNature·DateJul 9, 2014

Fruit fly immunity fails with fungus after (space)flight

Researchers found that fruit flies' Toll pathway failed to respond to a fungal infection in space, while the Imd pathway remained robust. This knowledge may help NASA develop countermeasures for astronauts' weakened immune systems during long-duration space missions.

SourceNASA/Johnson Space Center·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 3, 2014

Proliferation cues 'natural killer' cells for job change

Researchers show that proliferation unlocks expression of Interleukin-10 in NK cells, a protein that moderates the immune system. This helps prevent hyperactivation of CD8 T cells, which can cause damage. The study provides another important role for lymphocyte proliferation and may help design vaccines.

SourceBrown University·JournalThe Journal of Immunology·DateJun 12, 2014
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.

Marijuana shows potential in treating autoimmune disease

Researchers at the University of South Carolina have discovered a novel pathway for marijuana to suppress immune functions, suggesting its potential in treating autoimmune diseases. The study found that THC can change histone molecules leading to inflammation suppression.

SourceUniversity of South Carolina·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateJun 2, 2014
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.

First structural insights into how plant immune receptors interact

Researchers have made a breakthrough in understanding plant disease resistance by revealing how plant immune receptors interact at an atomic level. The study found that dual-protein recognition systems are crucial for recognizing specific molecules from pathogens and activating defense mechanisms.

SourceNorwich BioScience Institutes·JournalScience·DateApr 17, 2014