Add BrightSurf on Google Email

ANCA-associated vasculitis: The ADVOCATE Study

The ADVOCATE study demonstrates avacopan's effectiveness in reducing corticoid use and achieving sustained remission in patients with AAV, particularly those with renal involvement. The treatment also showed improved outcomes with lower infection rates compared to standard immunosuppressive therapy.

SourceERA – European Renal Association·DateJun 7, 2020

Tumors disrupt the immune system throughout the body

Researchers discover distinct effects of different tumor types on mouse immune system and human breast cancer patients, suggesting potential applications for cancer immunotherapy. Tumors cause widespread disruption of immune system, evolving over time, which can impact treatment efficacy.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNature Medicine·DateJun 3, 2020

Cognitive behavior therapy tops other psychotherapies in reducing inflammation

A review of 56 randomized clinical trials found that cognitive behavior therapy is superior to other psychotherapies in reducing inflammation and boosting the immune system. CBT was most effective in reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines, which are associated with chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and Alzheimer's disease.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateJun 3, 2020
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.

Bees grooming each other can boost colony immunity

Research suggests that bees specializing in allogrooming exhibit stronger immune systems, which may enable them to withstand higher infection risks. Allogroomer bees occupy central positions in the colony's social network, benefiting a large number of bees.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 2, 2020

A boost for cancer immunotherapy

Researchers at MIT create nanoparticles that stimulate the immune system, making cancer immunotherapy more powerful. By combining these particles with checkpoint inhibitors, they achieved a synergistic effect that halted tumor growth and even stopped tumors from spreading.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 1, 2020

OU College of Medicine awarded $11 million grant to study infections

The OU College of Medicine has been awarded a $11 million federal grant to create the Oklahoma Center for Microbial Pathogenesis and Immunity. The center will focus on researching various types of infections, including fungal, bacterial, viral, and parasitic infections, and how the immune system recognizes and destroys them.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·DateJun 1, 2020

Human lifelong immunity depends on APRIL

Researchers found APRIL protein essential for plasmacyte development and immunoglobulin production in humans. A deficiency in APRIL leads to reduced plasmacyte numbers and increased susceptibility to infections.

SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateJun 1, 2020
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.

How to improve the pneumococcus vaccine

Researchers have identified a newly found pneumococcus capsule, the 100th since its discovery, and linked it to oral streptococci. This finding underscores the need for updated vaccines that can keep pace with rapidly changing bacteria.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmBio·DateMay 19, 2020
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.

Lymphatic vessels in mice and humans: Alike yet different

Researchers mapped lymph node lymphatic vessels in mice and humans at the individual cell level, discovering five distinct groups of cells with similar functions. The study provides valuable insights into immune system function and will aid in developing new treatments for viral diseases and cancer.

SourceUppsala University·JournalFrontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine·DateMay 5, 2020

Engineering a new model for respiratory infection treatment

A new model for respiratory infection treatment is being developed using mathematical modeling to predict and treat patients at risk of extreme lung inflammation. The University of Pittsburgh's Jason Shoemaker received a $547K NSF CAREER Award to create computational models of the immune response to seasonal influenza viruses.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·DateApr 29, 2020

Arctic wildlife uses extreme method to save energy

Researchers at Lund University discovered a unique energy-saving strategy used by Arctic birds during the polar night, involving weakening their immune system. This adaptation allows them to conserve energy on keeping warm and finding food, but may pose risks when climate change alters migratory patterns and disease transmission.

SourceLund University·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateApr 28, 2020

Dietary supplements an important weapon for fighting off COVID-19

A recent study published in Nutrients suggests that daily multivitamins with high doses of vitamin C and vitamin D can help fight off infections. The researchers recommend taking 200mg or more of vitamin C and 2,000 international units of vitamin D to support immune function.

SourceOregon State University·JournalNutrients·DateApr 23, 2020
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.

Individual genetic variation in immune system may affect severity of COVID-19

Research suggests that individual genetic variation in the immune system may affect susceptibility to and severity of COVID-19. The study found that certain immune system genes, such as human leukocyte antigen genes, vary from person to person and can influence how well the immune system recognizes SARS-CoV-2.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalJournal of Virology·DateApr 17, 2020

When fathers are pregnant

A team of scientists discovered that genetic alterations in the immune system of pipefishes and seahorses allow them to tolerate paternal genetic information and develop their offspring. The study found that genes involved in female mammalian pregnancy are also activated in male pregnancy, suggesting similar molecular mechanisms.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel (GEOMAR)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 13, 2020

Is autoimmunity on the rise?

A study published in Arthritis & Rheumatology found a significant increase in autoimmunity prevalence in the US population between 1988 and 2012. The prevalence of antinuclear antibodies (ANA) rose from 11.0% in 1988 to 15.9% in 2011-2012, affecting an estimated 41 million individuals.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatology·DateApr 8, 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.

Researchers discover potential boost to immunotherapy

Researchers at Mount Sinai have found a way to regulate special immune system cells in lung cancer tumors, suppressing them and allowing tumors to grow. By blocking this pathway, the immune system can be boosted to prevent tumor formation or growth, offering a potential new treatment for immunotherapy.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNature·DateMar 30, 2020

Too much salt weakens the immune system

A high-salt diet can significantly weaken the immune system by reducing the function of granulocytes, a type of immune cell that attacks bacteria. This is according to a new study published in Science Translational Medicine, which found that mice fed a high-salt diet suffered from more severe bacterial infections.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMar 25, 2020

'Natural killer' cells could halt Parkinson's progression

Researchers found that natural killer cells can regulate and restrain inflammation of brain tissue, reducing protein clumping and viral resistance. The study suggests NK cells play a critical role in protecting against Parkinson's disease progression.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 17, 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.

New understanding of immune modulator interleukin-2 guides drug discovery

Researchers have uncovered the intricate details of interleukin-2's interactions with receptor molecules, providing a blueprint for more targeted therapies. The study shows how IL-2 can act as either a throttle or a brake on the immune response in different contexts.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 17, 2020

Cancer: The immune system attacks tumors remotely

Researchers at Institut Pasteur found that immune cells can attack cancer cells remotely through soluble molecules like interferon-gamma. This discovery supports a key target for future immunotherapy approaches and may enable T lymphocytes to act on a large number of cancer cells.

SourceInstitut Pasteur·JournalNature Cancer·DateMar 12, 2020

Babies born prematurely can catch up their immune systems, study finds

Researchers found that premature babies can catch up with their immune systems after birth, equivalent to those born at term. The study suggests that preterm and term infants converge in a similar time frame for immune development, and that early identification of infection risk can lead to improved outcomes.

SourceKing's College London·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 9, 2020
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.

Cracking the code for hookworm infestation

Researchers at Monash University have discovered a key mechanism that enables hookworms to evade the human immune system. By understanding how these parasites destroy neutrophil extracellular traps, scientists may be able to develop vaccines to boost immunity and prevent reinfection.

SourceMonash University·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateFeb 12, 2020

Why the goby can conquer the waters of the world

The round goby's exceptional adaptability is attributed to its immune system, which features up to 30 times more inflammatory genes than comparable species. This enables the fish to deal with pathogens and extreme environmental conditions, facilitating its successful colonization of diverse waters around the world.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalBMC Biology·DateFeb 11, 2020

Personalized cancer vaccines

Researchers at EPFL have created a prototype vaccine that can travel to the desired location and activate immune cells, overcoming two major obstacles in therapeutic cancer vaccines. The Polycondensate Neoepitope (PNE) combines a patented technique with an algorithm for predicting mutated tumor antigens.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalACS Central Science·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.

Protein closely linked to commonest cause of blindness

A study published in Nature Communications reveals a major link between protein FHR4 and age-related macular degeneration, affecting 1.5 million people in the UK alone. The findings show that higher levels of FHR4 in the blood increase the risk of AMD by activating part of the immune system.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 7, 2020
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 understanding of childhood immune systems may improve vaccine efficacy

A new study by Swiss TPH and partners found that age, location, and anaemia status significantly impact childhood immune system development. The research suggests that considering these factors can improve the efficacy of childhood vaccinations, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where anaemia is prevalent.

SourceSwiss Tropical and Public Health Institute·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateFeb 5, 2020

The invisibility cloak of a fungus

A fungal pathogen, Cryptococcus neoformans, has been found to use an enzyme called chitosan deacetylase to alter its cell wall structure, making it invisible to the human immune system. Researchers have identified a new chitosan deacetylase that is crucial for the fungus's ability to evade detection.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 5, 2020
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.

A roadblock for disease-causing parasites

Researchers discovered that activating a mosquito's immune system can prevent the transmission of disease-causing parasites like Dirofilaria immitis and Brugia malayi. By boosting the immune response, mosquitoes can block parasite development, potentially stopping diseases like canine heartworm and human lymphatic filariasis.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 3, 2020

Hope for enhanced UTI treatments to minimize bladder pain

Research finds that low levels of infection can cause chronic bladder dysfunction and magnify sensations felt by patients with urinary tract infections. Understanding how nerves transmit different sensations to the brain could help limit bladder dysfunction in overactive bladder patients.

SourceFlinders University·JournalPain·DateJan 29, 2020
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.

Deciphering the sugar code

Scientists at the University of Münster have developed a vaccine-like treatment that stimulates plants' natural immune system using a specific pattern in chitosan, a biopolymer. This breakthrough could lead to reduced chemical pesticide use and improved plant growth, as well as potential applications in scar-free wound healing.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJan 24, 2020

Novel approach to immune system could lead to personalized therapy against sepsis

Researchers propose combining fever resistance with temporary tolerance promoted by controlled hypothermia for studying and treating severe conditions like sepsis. This innovative concept aims to understand human physiology's integrated defense strategies against infection.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalTrends in Endocrinology and Metabolism·DateJan 23, 2020

Scientists breach brain barriers to attack tumors

Scientists have found a novel method to combat glioblastoma, a deadly brain tumor, by introducing VEGF-C into the cerebrospinal fluid of mice. This approach significantly extended survival rates when combined with immune system checkpoint inhibitors, offering new hope for treatment options.

SourceYale University·JournalNature·DateJan 15, 2020
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.

An out-of-the-box attack on diabetes

Researchers identified growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF15) as a key player in delaying type 1 diabetes onset in diabetic mice. Treatment with GDF15 reduced development of diabetes by 53% in non-obese diabetic mice, providing a potential target for prevention and treatment.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalCell Metabolism·DateJan 9, 2020

Bacterial link in celiac disease

Scientists have discovered a molecular foundation for bacterial exposure as a potential environmental factor in coeliac disease development. Receptors from immune T cells can recognize protein fragments from certain bacteria that mimic gluten, leading to aberrant recognition and health problems.

SourceMonash University·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateJan 8, 2020

A mother's bugs

Research shows that maternal microbiota provides immunity to newborns against E. coli, a disease-causing microbe. The study reveals that antibodies are passed on to offspring through milk and the placenta, offering protection beyond just breastfeeding.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalNature·DateJan 8, 2020

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
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.

Shifting the balance of growth vs. defense boosts crop yield

A team led by CSHL Professor David Jackson has identified a gene in corn that contributes to both plant development and immune system control. Manipulating this gene, Gß, could increase crop yields by reprogramming the balance between growth and defense.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 17, 2019

Immune system can be coaxed into selecting key antibodies to fight HIV

Researchers at Duke University Medical Center developed an immunogen that selectively bound to antibodies with necessary mutations, which led to the production of potent neutralizing antibodies. The study demonstrates the ability to engineer the immune system to create an environment where effective antibodies can be made.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalScience·DateDec 5, 2019
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Humans co-evolved with immune-related diseases -- and it's still happening

Researchers describe how ancestral origins impact the likelihood of developing immune-related diseases, including Crohn's disease and cardiovascular diseases. The human immune system is evolving depending on a person's location or lifestyle, leading to new diseases emerging as our lifespans increase.

SourceCell Press·JournalTrends in Immunology·DateNov 27, 2019

A protein tag to study the immune system

Scientists have identified nearly thousand ISG15 sites on protein targets during bacterial infection, revealing a link between ISG15, cellular metabolism, and autophagy. This discovery may lead to novel antimicrobial drugs.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 26, 2019

From childhood cancer to mapping human development

Professor Muzlifah Haniffa has made significant contributions to biomedical science, including mapping the maternal-fetal interface and discovering new immune cells in the skin. Her work aims to improve understanding of health and disease, particularly in childhood kidney cancer.

SourceAcademy of Medical Sciences (UK)·DateNov 18, 2019

New technique to identify a common cause to TMA diseases for which there is a treatment

Researchers develop a new technique to detect activated complement pathway in patients with thrombotic microangiopathies (TMA), allowing clinicians to determine potential use of existing treatment for other diseases. The technique could lead to improved diagnosis and treatment of secondary TMAs, such as pre-eclampsia and HELLP syndrome.

SourceJosep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateNov 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.