Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Your first COVID-19 vaccination ‘hurts’ subsequent boosters

A new Northwestern University study suggests that COVID-19 boosters may be less effective due to pre-existing antibodies from initial vaccinations. The study found that these antibodies can rapidly clear the booster from the body, limiting its efficacy. Increasing time between vaccinations is also beneficial for the immune response.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalCell Reports·DateFeb 15, 2023

Why men are at higher risk from COVID-19

Researchers at Osaka University found that male patients with COVID-19 have a faster loss of circulating Treg cells, leading to dysregulated antibody responses. Females, on the other hand, have higher levels of these cells, which may help protect them from infection.

SourceOsaka University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 12, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

How a high fat diet allows expulsion of intestinal parasite worms

A high-fat diet allows the immune system to eliminate a parasitic worm that causes long-lasting infections in the large intestine. This discovery may lead to new treatments for millions suffering from intestinal parasitic infections worldwide.

SourceLancaster University·JournalMucosal Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 6, 2023

Molecular machines could treat fungal infections

Researchers at Rice University have developed light-activated nanoscale drills that can kill pathogenic fungi, providing a potential new treatment option for fungal infections. The molecular machines target the mitochondria of fungal cells, disrupting cellular metabolism and leading to cell death.

SourceRice University·JournalAdvanced Science·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 1, 2023

LJI scientists uncover the structure and function of Inmazeb, the first FDA-approved drug for Ebola virus infection

Researchers at La Jolla Institute for Immunology have discovered the detailed mechanism of action of Inmazeb, a three-antibody cocktail designed to combat Ebola virus infection. The study reveals new information about how the drug interacts with the virus and its potential effectiveness against additional species of Ebolavirus.

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalCell Host & Microbe·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 30, 2023

OHSU researchers find immune response to COVID-19 strengthens over time

A study by OHSU researchers found that immunity from COVID-19 gathers strength over time, indicating that vaccination should not be delayed. The study suggests that vaccine boosters can be spaced no more frequently than a year apart among healthy individuals.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalJCI Insight·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 26, 2023
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 study suggests a promising therapeutic target for sepsis

A new study published in The American Journal of Pathology suggests that promoting autophagy with rapamycin restores intestinal barrier function during sepsis. The study also identifies the PLK1-mTOR axis as a crucial regulator of autophagy and intestinal barrier dysfunction, providing novel insights for treatment of sepsis.

SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 26, 2023

Negative marital communications leave literal, figurative wounds

Research suggests that avoiding or withdrawing from tough conversations can lead to emotional distress, bad feelings about the relationship, chronic inflammation, and lowered immune function. Couples who exhibit negative communication patterns report fewer positive emotions and slower wound healing.

SourceOhio State University·JournalPsychoneuroendocrinology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 18, 2023

Commonly used antiretroviral drugs used to treat HIV and hepatitis B reduce immune cells’ energy production

Research reveals that commonly used antiretroviral drugs TAF and TDF directly impact mitochondria's energy production in immune cells. The study suggests a larger energy reduction when combined with other antiretrovirals, sparking concerns about potential long-term effects on human cells.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalMetabolism·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 18, 2023

How the body's B cell academy ensures a diverse immune response

A new study reveals that high-affinity B cells trigger a change in the criteria for admission to germinal centers, allowing low-affinity B cells to join, increasing the diversity of the immune response. This process is crucial for fighting off viruses like SARS-CoV-2 but may hinder efforts against HIV.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalCell·DateJan 17, 2023
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.

Mucosal antibodies in the airways provide durable protection against SARS-CoV-2

Researchers found that high levels of mucosal IgA antibodies in the airways protect against SARS-CoV-2 infection for at least eight months, with a 90% lower risk of re-infection. Participants with prior infections generated stronger mucosal immune responses to Omicron breakthrough infections.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·TypeObservational study·DateJan 16, 2023

COVID-19 vaccine for children after MIS-C appears safe

A multicenter study found that COVID-19 vaccination following multisystem inflammatory syndrome (MIS-C) is safe, with mild reactions and no serious complications. The study included 385 patients aged 5 years or older, all of whom received at least one vaccine dose without any reports of myocarditis or MIS-C reoccurrence.

SourceNIH/National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJan 3, 2023
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.

Tracking plasma cell survival

A study by Osaka University tracked the survival of antibody-producing plasma cells, finding that most die shortly after immune response, but a small population can survive for months or years. The researchers identified molecular markers distinguishing these long-lived plasma cells from short-lived ones.

SourceOsaka University·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 14, 2022

Long-term immune response to SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccination is unaffected by pregnancy

A recent study published in the American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology MFM found that pregnant individuals have a similar long-term immune response to SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccination as non-pregnant individuals. The study also showed that vaccination during pregnancy provides protection to unborn babies, which is essential for their C...

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology MFM·DateDec 13, 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.

Covid vaccines also help protect HIV patients

Researchers found that Covid vaccines effectively protect HIV-positive individuals, particularly after a third booster shot. The study also revealed a surprisingly strong cellular immune response in HIV-positive people, similar to those in healthy individuals.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalFrontiers in Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 9, 2022

Immune system of modern Papuans shaped by DNA from ancient Denisovans

A recent study found that Denisovan DNA sequences near immune-related genes in modern Papuans regulate their activity, affecting how people respond to infections. The research suggests that Denisovan DNA contributed to the adaptation of early modern humans living in New Guinea and nearby islands.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateDec 8, 2022

Researchers determine genetic variants offered protection during Black Death, associated with current autoimmune disorders

A study found that genetic variants near ERAP2 and TICAM2 provided protection against Yersinia pestis, the bacterium responsible for the Black Death. These variants were also associated with improved detection and resistance to other pathogens, but at a cost: increased risk of autoimmune disorders like Crohn's disease.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 8, 2022
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.

Scientists uncover biological explanation behind why upper respiratory infections are more common in colder temperatures

A newly discovered immune response inside the nose fights off viruses, but is suppressed by colder temperatures, making an infection more likely to occur. The study offers the first biological mechanism to explain why viruses like COVID-19 spike in colder seasons.

SourceMass Eye and Ear·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 6, 2022

How antibody therapy impacts COVID vaccines

Research finds that individuals who received monoclonal antibodies before COVID vaccination exhibit a diverse antibody response, increasing the coverage provided by vaccines. This phenomenon, known as antibody feedback inhibition, is beneficial for diversifying immune responses to viruses.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalNature·DateDec 6, 2022
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

RCSI research explains how our body clock influences vaccine responses

A new study by RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences found that the circadian body clock influences immune responses to vaccines. The research discovered that the shape of mitochondria in dendritic cells changes throughout the day, impacting their ability to break down vaccines.

SourceRCSI·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 5, 2022
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 function of the CRISPR gene scissors discovered

Researchers at the University Hospital Bonn have discovered a new function of CRISPR/Cas9 gene scissors, which produce small signal molecules that bind to proteins, activating an emergency response. This discovery opens up new possibilities for treating diseases using CRISPR technology.

SourceUniversitatsklinikum Bonn·JournalNature·DateNov 24, 2022

COVID-19 reactivates several latent viruses – particularly in ME patients

A recent study from Linköping University found that COVID-19 reactivated several latent viruses, including the Epstein-Barr virus, in people with chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). The study suggests that these reactivated viruses may contribute to the disease's symptoms and could potentially be used as a diagnostic tool.

SourceLinköping University·JournalFrontiers in Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 16, 2022

Control of cell population sizes: When is enough enough?

The study reveals that coronin proteins regulate T cell population size by promoting survival signals when cells are not too crowded. This mechanism is evolutionarily conserved in both humans and slime molds, opening up new avenues for research.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalScience Signaling·DateNov 9, 2022
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.

Gut parasites may increase onward transmission of respiratory bugs

Co-infection with gut parasites increases shedding of respiratory bugs like Bordetella bacterium, leading to higher probability of onward transmission. This study in rabbits has broad implications for human populations and suggests targeting treatment of helminths could be an effective way to reduce disease outbreaks.

SourceeLife·JournaleLife·DateNov 8, 2022

Common, usually harmless group of bacteria associated with higher death rates in kidney patients

Researchers found a significant association between NTM infection and increased mortality in patients with end-stage renal disease. Early diagnosis and treatment may improve survival. NTM can cause nonspecific symptoms like fever and weight loss, and patients with compromised immune systems are at higher risk.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalJournal of Investigative Medicine·DateOct 25, 2022

Cervical cancer discovery offers major new clue to better understand the disease

Researchers have identified two distinct molecular subgroups of cervical cancer, C1 and C2, which differ in their clinical aggressiveness and response to treatment. The study suggests that determining the subgroup of a patient's cervical cancer could provide additional prognostic information for planning treatment.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateOct 21, 2022
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Pomegranate fueling cancer therapy

Researchers identified urolithin A as a compound that improves function of immune cells against cancer. The study found that urolithin A induces mitophagy in T cells, recycling and renewing mitochondria to enhance tumor-fighting capabilities.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalImmunity·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 18, 2022

Cancer patients treated with immunotherapy can safely receive mRNA COVID-19 vaccines, according to JNCCN study

Researchers analyzed 408 patients receiving immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy and found no increased risk of side effects from receiving both immunotherapy and the vaccine. The study supports NCCN's recommendations for COVID-19 vaccination in people with cancer, citing strong protection against severe COVID-19 for all variants.

SourceNational Comprehensive Cancer Network·JournalJournal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network·DateOct 17, 2022
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.

Infections can have long-term consequences

A VUB study has mapped the immune system's response to brain infections, revealing that resident macrophages play a key role in defending against pathogens. The researchers found that blood-derived immune cells can eliminate parasites, but may retain 'memory' of past infections, altering their ability to respond to future insults.

SourceVrije Universiteit Brussel·JournalImmunity·DateOct 12, 2022

Study shows that COVID-19 booster jabs provide better immunity against SARS-CoV-2 variants in elderly Singaporeans

A new study shows that COVID-19 booster jabs significantly improve immunity against SARS-CoV-2 variants in elderly Singaporeans. The study found that a third vaccine dose boosts low antibody responses and T cell responses in older adults, providing better protection against severe disease.

SourceAgency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 11, 2022

Study shows shaker channel mutation differs structurally from human potassium channels

A recent study led by Dr. Luis Cuello and Alain J. Labro found that a known Shaker channel mutation differs structurally from its human counterparts, with implications for drug development and ion transport mechanisms. The research reveals a unique conformation of the W434F mutant that is distinct from wild-type channels.

SourceTexas Tech University Health Sciences Center·JournalScience Advances·TypeObservational study·DateOct 11, 2022

Findings suggest COVID-19 rebound not caused by impaired immune response

Researchers analyzed eight patients who experienced COVID-19 rebound after taking Paxlovid and found robust T-cell responses. The study suggests that rebound symptoms could be driven by the cellular immune response to residual viral RNA rather than an impaired immune response.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateOct 6, 2022

Scientists shed light on COVID-19 booster dose effectiveness among the elderly in Japan

Researchers found that elderly Japanese individuals show a low immune response to the third mRNA COVID-19 booster vaccine. The study revealed that nearly 10% of participants had negligible antibody production despite receiving an additional dose. The findings suggest that elderly people may require specialized serological testing proto...

SourceOkayama University·JournalJournal of Infection·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 6, 2022
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.

Positive effects of omega-3 on the immune system in cases of severe COVID-19

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet found that intravenous omega-3 treatment improved immune function and stimulated healing of inflammation without compromising the body's response to COVID-19. The study suggests a potential new, cost-effective low-risk treatment for severe COVID-19.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalClinical and Translational Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 29, 2022

Study demonstrates for the first time that ticks weaken skin's immune response

A study by MedUni Vienna's Department of Dermatology reveals that tick saliva inhibits the skin's defense function, making it easier for pathogens to multiply. Climate change increases the danger from ticks, which now pose a threat in higher-altitude regions of Austria and well into late autumn.

SourceMedical University of Vienna·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 28, 2022

Immune function remodeled by mitochondrial shape

A new study led by Erika Pearce at Johns Hopkins Medicine found that the shape and function of mitochondria in Th17 cells play a crucial role in controlling their autoimmune activity. The researchers identified several molecules, including LKB1, that can influence this process, paving the way for potential therapeutic modifications.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNature·DateSep 28, 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.

Acquired immunity against random food allergens may protect some lucky people against COVID-19

A recent study finds that exposure to proteins in common foods, vaccines, bacteria, and viruses can prime the immune system to attack SARS-CoV-2, potentially providing protection against COVID-19. The study's findings suggest that individuals with a history of exposure to these agents may be less susceptible to severe illness.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 23, 2022

The carp virus that taught researchers about immunology

Researchers at University of Liège discovered a carp virus's ability to inhibit host cell defense mechanisms through the Zα protein domain. This finding broadens our understanding of Zα domain-containing proteins involved in immune system diseases such as cancers and autoimmune diseases.

SourceUniversity of Liège·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateSep 23, 2022

New study reveals breakthrough infections increase immunity to COVID-19

A new study from OHSU reveals that breakthrough infections following vaccination can provide a potent immune response against COVID-19, with increased protection for those 65 and older. The research found an equally strong immune response among people who received a third vaccine booster dose three months prior.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalMed·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 22, 2022

Unhealthy gut sets stage for breast cancer to spread, research reveals

Research from UVA Cancer Center finds that an unhealthy gut microbiome can trigger changes in normal breast tissue, facilitating cancer's spread to other parts of the body. The study suggests that targeting the gut-mast cell relationship could help prevent breast cancer recurrence and metastasis.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·DateSep 22, 2022
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.

SMART and NTU Singapore develop a quick test kit to determine a person’s immunity against COVID-19 and its variants

A team of scientists from SMART and NTU Singapore has developed a rapid point-of-care test kit that measures antibodies against SARS-COV-2 and its variants, offering personalized vaccination strategies. The test kit requires just 10 minutes to show results and has up to 93% accuracy.

SourceSingapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART)·JournalMicrobiology Spectrum·TypeNews article·DateSep 21, 2022

NIH-funded study shows sound sleep supports immune function

Researchers found that getting enough sleep influences the environment where monocytes form, develop, and get primed to support immune function. This process, hematopoiesis, occurs in the bone marrow and can accelerate clonal hematopoiesis, an age-related condition linked to cardiovascular disease.

SourceNIH/National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateSep 21, 2022

New study explains link between diabetes and UTIs

Research at Karolinska Institutet shows that people with diabetes have lower levels of psoriasin, a key peptide that weakens the bladder's protective barrier function. This increases the risk of urinary tract infections. Oestrogen therapy may help regulate the immune response to UTIs in patients with diabetes.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 20, 2022
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.