Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Ultra-selective aptamers give viruses a taste of their own medicine

Researchers at EPFL have created ultra-selective aptamers that target specific binding sites on viral spike proteins with unprecedented precision. These multivalent binders show stronger and more selective binding affinities than traditional monovalent binders, making them promising for biomedical diagnostics and therapeutics.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Nanotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 6, 2025

New technology for mass serological analysis

A new technology using microscopic beads marked with stable isotopes enables the simultaneous detection of dozens of different antibodies in hundreds of samples. This expands the capacity of serological analysis for biomedical research, vaccine development, and epidemiological studies.

SourceInstitute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC)·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 5, 2025

A gene variant increases the risk of long COVID

An international team of researchers has identified a genetic link to long-term symptoms after COVID-19, with a gene variant increasing the risk by about 60%. The variant is located near the FOXP4 gene, which affects lung function and development. Impaired lung function plays a key role in developing long COVID.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNature Genetics·DateMay 21, 2025
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.

PFAS influence cellular immune response to coronavirus

A recent study by UFZ reveals that PFAS influence the cellular immune response to SARS-CoV-2, particularly in males. The researchers found that high PFAS exposure alters the immune response, potentially reducing its effectiveness and increasing the risk of poor disease progression.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ·JournalEnvironment International·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 8, 2025

Long COVID biomarkers found – associated with respiratory problems

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have identified biomarkers in the blood associated with long COVID symptoms, particularly severe respiratory disorders. The study found that these biomarkers are also linked to inflammatory signal pathways involved in cell death and lung damage.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNature Immunology·TypeObservational study·DateApr 30, 2025
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.

Children face elevated kidney, heart, and gut risks for years after COVID infection

Long COVID can result in significant health risks for young people, including chronic kidney disease, gastrointestinal symptoms, and cardiovascular conditions. Studies found that children with COVID-19 face elevated risks of developing these conditions, even years after the initial infection.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 22, 2025
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.

COVID vaccine protected kids from long COVID

New research found that COVID vaccines significantly reduced the risk of long COVID in children and adolescents. Vaccination was about 95% effective in preventing long COVID in some cohorts, primarily due to its ability to prevent initial infection.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalEClinicalMedicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 21, 2025

COVID-19 vaccination induces long-lasting antibody B-cell responses

A study of 113 healthcare workers found that COVID-19 mRNA vaccination induces long-lasting antibody and memory B-cell responses, even in those previously exposed to the virus. The research team also discovered an association between higher levels of specific antibodies and increased risk of breakthrough infections.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 8, 2025

Lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic

A recent study reveals critical vulnerabilities in global testing capacity during the COVID-19 pandemic, with socioeconomic disparities playing a significant role. The findings underscore the need for increased diagnostic capacity, equitable access to healthcare, and sustained international cooperation.

SourceGerman Center for Infection Research·JournalBMJ Open·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 7, 2025
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Smartwatch data: Study finds early health differences in long COVID patients

Researchers found that people who later experienced persistent shortness of breath or fatigue had significantly fewer steps per day and a higher resting heart rate before contracting the virus. These findings suggest a link between lower fitness levels and preexisting health conditions in long COVID patients.

SourceComplexity Science Hub·Journalnpj Digital Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 20, 2025

Computational drug discovery: Exploring natural products targeting SARS-CoV-2

A recent study identifies 11 natural compounds that can inhibit the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, including caffeine, which exhibits high binding stability and excellent solubility. The discovery highlights the potential of natural products in combating COVID-19 and demonstrates the versatility of widely known compounds like caffeine.

SourceNara Institute of Science and Technology·JournalScientific Reports·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 20, 2025

COVID-19 pandemic worsened mother, infant birth outcomes

Researchers found that women who became pregnant after the start of the pandemic were more likely to experience preterm birth and low birth weight, regardless of COVID-19 infection severity. Moderate-to-severe infections during pregnancy also increased the risk of adverse outcomes.

SourceArnold School of Public Health·JournalAnnals of Epidemiology·DateMar 16, 2025

CeSPIACE: A broad-spectrum peptide inhibitor against variable SARS-CoV-2 spikes

Researchers developed CeSPIACE, a 39-amino-acid peptide drug candidate that binds to the spike protein, blocking viral entry. It demonstrates strong binding to major SARS-CoV-2 variants and shows efficacy against multiple strains in vivo and in vitro experiments.

SourceInstitute of Science Tokyo·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 14, 2025

Symptoms of long-COVID can last up to two years after infection with COVID-19

A study of the COVICAT cohort found that almost one in four people infected with SARS-CoV-2 developed long COVID, with symptoms persisting for two years or more. Risk factors included severe COVID-19 infection and pre-existing chronic diseases, while vaccination before infection and a healthy lifestyle appeared to reduce the risk.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalBMC Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateMar 13, 2025
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.

New antibodies show potential to defeat all SARS-CoV-2 variants

Researchers at Stanford University have discovered a method to use two antibodies to effectively combat the constantly evolving virus, which could lead to longer-lasting treatments for COVID-19. The antibodies were shown to be effective against all SARS-CoV-2 variants in laboratory testing.

SourceStanford University·DateMar 5, 2025

Study: Smartwatches could end the next pandemic

Researchers at Aalto University and others have developed a model that shows smartwatches can accurately detect viral infections several days before symptoms appear. This early detection can lead to significant reductions in disease transmission and could potentially stop a pandemic before it starts.

SourceAalto University·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateMar 4, 2025

COVID-flu vaccine could provide broad, lasting protection

Researchers developed a new vaccine platform that provides robust, long-lasting protection against multiple flu strains and COVID-19. The vaccine boasts 100% survival rates in vaccinated mice following challenge with either virus.

SourceCornell University·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 3, 2025

Large population study identifies long-term health risks after COVID-19 hospitalization

A nationwide study found that COVID-19 hospital patients experienced a higher rate of deaths from any cause and were more likely to be hospitalized for specific conditions, particularly neurological and respiratory problems. The study also identified increased risks of chronic health complications up to 30 months after discharge.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalInfectious Diseases·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 28, 2025

Not all heart inflammation is the same

A study published in Nature Cardiovascular Research identified distinct immune signatures in myocarditis caused by SARS-CoV-2 infection and mRNA vaccines compared to non-COVID-19 myocarditis. The findings suggest a stronger immune response in post-COVID-19 myocarditis, while the inflammation appeared milder in post-vaccination cases.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalNature Cardiovascular Research·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 24, 2025
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.

Nasal COVID-19 vaccine based on WashU technology to enter US clinical trials

A US clinical trial will assess the safety and efficacy of a nasal COVID-19 vaccine developed using technology from Washington University in St. Louis. The trial, sponsored by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, aims to evaluate the vaccine's ability to induce strong immunity in the nose and upper respiratory tract.

SourceWashU Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 5, 2025

Virus that causes COVID-19 increases risk of cardiac events

A new study found that COVID-19 infection is associated with faster growth of plaque in the coronary arteries, leading to an increased risk of cardiovascular events. The study also revealed a higher incidence of high-risk plaques and coronary inflammation among infected patients.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateFeb 4, 2025
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Observing ozonated water’s effectiveness against SARS-CoV-2 in saliva

Researchers investigated ozonated water's impact on SARS-CoV-2 in saliva, discovering that protein concentrations like amylase and mucin decrease ozone stability and effectiveness. This study provides insights into the applicability of ozonated water for disinfection in real-world settings.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalJournal of Hospital Infection·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 3, 2025

Japan’s “soft” but not ineffective approach to public health during the COVID-19 pandemic

Researchers from Osaka University found that Japan's state of emergency declarations led to increased hygienic behaviors and risk perception, which persisted even after the policy was lifted. However, older people became less fearful of COVID-19 and were less likely to wear masks.

SourceOsaka University·JournalInternational Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction·TypeObservational study·DateJan 29, 2025

Researchers in Brazil discover a gene that may afford protection against COVID-19

A study on six serodiscordant couples found that women who were immune to SARS-CoV-2 had elevated expression of the gene IFIT3 compared to their male partners. This suggests that overexpression of IFIT3 may offer protection against COVID-19 by inhibiting viral replication and preventing cell invasion.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalFrontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology·DateJan 29, 2025
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New tool can detect fast-spreading SARS-COV-2 variants before they take off

Researchers developed a powerful tool to detect SARS-CoV-2 variants with high transmission potential, pinpointing exact mutations driving spread. The model focuses on spike protein and other parts of the virus, enhancing ability to bind human cells and evade immune systems.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 29, 2025

Study tracks physical and cognitive impairments associated with long COVID

Researchers tracked nearly 1,000 people with post-COVID-19 syndrome, finding persistent physical and cognitive impairments that worsened with exercise intolerance. The study's findings support the inclusion of cognitive and exercise testing in clinical evaluation for patients with suspected post-COVID-19 syndrome.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateJan 23, 2025

A new vaccine approach could help combat future coronavirus pandemics

Researchers developed a nanoparticle-based vaccine that generates antibodies targeting conserved regions of sarbecovirus receptor-binding proteins, offering broader protection against multiple strains. The vaccine demonstrated strong antibody responses and protection in animal studies against diverse SARS-CoV-2 and other sarbecoviruses.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalCell·DateJan 23, 2025
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.

Females have a 31% higher associated risk of developing long COVID, UT Health San Antonio-led RECOVER study shows

A recent study published in JAMA Network Open found that females aged 40-55 years have the highest risk of developing long COVID, with a 31% higher associated risk compared to males. The research, part of the NIH RECOVER initiative, suggests that patients and healthcare teams should consider sex differences when treating long COVID.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJan 22, 2025

COVID-19 infection associated with nearly eightfold increase in chronic fatigue syndrome

A new study published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine found that COVID-19 infection significantly increases the rate of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) among COVID-19 survivors. Nearly eight times more people with ME/CFS were infected with SARS-CoV-2 than those without, according to the research.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateJan 15, 2025
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Genetic mutation linked to higher SARS-CoV-2 risk

Researchers identified a novel genetic risk factor for SARS-CoV-2 infection, linking a PTPN2 variant to increased ACE2 expression and susceptibility. The study suggests Tofacitinib may mitigate this risk, offering new treatment options for patients at higher genetic risk.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalCellular and Molecular Gastroenterology and Hepatology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 14, 2025

NIH-funded study finds cases of ME/CFS increase following SARS-CoV-2

The NIH-funded RECOVER Initiative study reveals a significant association between SARS-CoV-2 infection and an increased incidence of myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS), with 4.5% post-COVID participants meeting ME/CFS diagnostic criteria, compared to 0.6% non-infected participants.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateJan 13, 2025
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.

Revealed: how COVID-19 variants hijack human cells

Researchers at University of Helsinki and colleagues have mapped the 'hijackome', detailing how SARS-CoV-2 variants exploit specific cellular pathways to spread and evade immune defenses.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalCell Discovery·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 9, 2024

The first mouse strain that is susceptible to severe COVID-19 without genetic modification has been identified

Scientists at The Jackson Laboratory have identified the CAST/EiJ mouse as a highly susceptible model for studying severe COVID-19. This genetically pure background allows researchers to investigate the virus's impact without artificial receptor modifications, mirroring human responses. Initial trials using antiviral treatments show pr...

SourceJackson Laboratory·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 6, 2024

Study uses game theory to rethink our pandemic responses

Dartmouth researchers propose a new way of thinking about masking and social distancing rules using game theory, considering them as two distinct actions. The study finds that people respond differently to these measures based on their perception of the disease's severity, trending towards masking or no protective action over time.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 4, 2024

COVID infection and age-related blindness

An experimental study in mice found that SARS-CoV-2 infection can damage the retinas, leading to long-term implications for vision. The virus caused widespread inflammation across the retinal pigment epithelium, including complement activation and increased production of inflammatory cytokines.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateDec 3, 2024

Researchers design a therapeutic tool to inhibit the proliferation of the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes COVID-19

Researchers have developed a novel therapeutic approach using polypurine hairpins to inhibit the replication of SARS-CoV-2. The technique has shown promising results in laboratory animal models and Vero E6 cells, providing a potential new tool in the fight against COVID-19 and other viral diseases.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 3, 2024
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.

Study untangles how COVID-19 wreaks widespread damage in the body

Researchers found that SARS-CoV-2 disrupts mitochondrial reactions, leading to immune sensor activation and a cytokine storm, which triggers multiple organ-damaging events. Autopsy samples revealed extensive inflammation and organ damage in organs such as the heart, lungs, and kidneys.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 2, 2024

New antibody breakthrough offers hope against evolving SARS-CoV-2 variants

Researchers have discovered a monoclonal antibody capable of targeting multiple SARS-CoV-2 variants, including recent Omicron strains. K4-66's exceptional ability to adapt to the virus's frequent mutations makes it a promising candidate for vaccine and therapy development.

SourceKumamoto University·JournalEBioMedicine·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 1, 2024
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.

In Silico analysis of cross-species sequence variability in host interferon antiviral pathway proteins and SARS-CoV-2 susceptibility

This study found that certain amino acid substitutions in four IFN-I antiviral pathway proteins can disrupt interactions, potentially aiding in determining SARS-CoV-2 transmission likelihood. Four proteins MDA5, NEMO, IRF3, and ISG15 were identified with potential domains or specific amino acids that may result in PPI disruption.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalZoonoses·DateNov 27, 2024

Association for Molecular Pathology publishes joint consensus report on SARS-CoV-2 genomic surveillance for hospitals and public health laboratories

The Association for Molecular Pathology has published a joint consensus report on SARS-CoV-2 genomic surveillance, outlining key considerations for next-generation sequencing methods. The report provides guidance on pre-analytical, analytical, and post-analytical aspects of NGS-based surveillance programs.

SourceAssociation for Molecular Pathology·JournalJournal of Molecular Diagnostics·DateNov 13, 2024
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.

Studies point to correlation between preeclampsia and COVID-19 in pregnant women

Research highlights correlation between preeclampsia and COVID-19 in pregnant women, identifying biomarkers for differential diagnosis. The review article emphasizes the pathophysiological similarities between the two conditions, including shared pathways involving the renin-angiotensin system and ACE2.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalAmerican Journal Of Reproductive Immunology·TypeLiterature review·DateNov 7, 2024

Kumamoto University scientists developed new SARS-CoV-2 variant detection method

Researchers at Kumamoto University have developed a cutting-edge diagnostic tool, Intelli-OVI, to rapidly identify emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants. This system combines advanced DNA detection technology with computational algorithms to offer a quicker and more cost-effective method of monitoring viral mutations.

SourceKumamoto University·JournalCommunications Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 6, 2024

Nanoparticles designed to trap and neutralise large amounts of SARS-CoV2

Researchers from the IBB-UAB have developed novel nanoparticles capable of trapping and neutralizing large quantities of SARS-CoV2 virus particles. These nanostructures could be used to manufacture antiviral materials such as wastewater and air filters, and develop new tests for early Covid-19 detection.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalAdvanced Healthcare Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 6, 2024
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.