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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

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
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.

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 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 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
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

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

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
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

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

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

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
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.

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

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
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.

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

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
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.

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

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
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.

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

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
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.

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

HIV+ women respond well to HPV vaccine

A clinical trial found that HIV-positive women build antibodies against HPV and experience no unusual safety issues after vaccination. The study's results counter doubts about the vaccine's effectiveness in this population, suggesting it is safe and beneficial for those with weakened immune systems.

SourceBrown University·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateApr 16, 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.

For good and ill, immune response to cancer cuts both ways

A recent study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that the intensity difference between an immune response that stimulates cancer and one that kills it may be minimal. This discovery challenges long-held assumptions about the role of the immune system in preventing and killing cancers.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 7, 2014

Research study takes deeper look at the role of gut microbes in the immune system

A new study suggests that gut microorganisms support the production of immune cells, which are essential for fighting infection. The research found that mice lacking gut microbes were more susceptible to bacterial infections, highlighting the importance of maintaining a healthy balance of gut microbes in our immune system.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateMar 24, 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.

B-cells aggravate autoimmune diseases

Scientists have discovered that B-lymphocytes lack the protein PTP1B, making them hyperactive and promoting an autoimmune attack. This study provides a new mechanism for how B-cells regulate an immune response, potentially playing a significant role in autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateMar 5, 2014

Cancer vaccine could use immune system to fight tumors

Researchers have developed a cancer vaccine that utilizes the immune system to target and destroy tumor cells producing a specific protein. The vaccine, which involves genetically modified tumor cells producing IL-15 and its receptor, shows promise in slowing tumor growth and increasing survival rates in animal models.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalGene Therapy·DateFeb 27, 2014

Vitamin D deficiency may compromise immune function

Researchers found a significant association between vitamin D deficiency and biomarkers for inflammation in older Irish adults. Vitamin D plays a crucial role in maintaining immune function, and low levels may compromise the body's ability to fight off infections and diseases.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateFeb 25, 2014
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.

Space-raised flies show weakened immunity to fungus

A study by researchers at the University of California, Davis found that growing up in space weakens a key immune system pathway in Drosophila flies. The Toll pathway was 'non-functional' in space-raised flies, but showed improvement under hypergravity conditions.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 24, 2014

Geography has impact on grapevine moth's success in French vineyards

A study found that the European grapevine moth is better adapted to certain French wine-growing regions due to regional differences in grape variety and natural enemies. The research showed a geographical variation in immune defense among wild populations, with larvae from southern areas having higher levels of antimicrobial activity.

SourceSpringer·DateJan 8, 2014
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.

Can a glass of wine a day keep the doctor away?

A study by UC Riverside-led team found that moderate alcohol consumption can bolster our immune system and potentially fight infections. The finding could lead to new interventions to improve vaccine responses, benefiting vulnerable populations.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalVaccine·DateDec 16, 2013

JCI early table of contents for Nov. 15, 2013

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation found that two p53 isoforms regulate aging- and tumor-associated replicative senescence in T lymphocytes. Additionally, a new gene therapy approach may not require immunosuppression, as regulatory T cells promote long-term expression.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateNov 15, 2013