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Study investigates how the severity of effects of the SARS-CoV-2 virus in England was affected by the mass vaccination campaign and emergence of Alpha, Delta and Omicron variants between May 2020 and March 2022

Researchers analyzed hospitalization and fatality rates of SARS-CoV-2 infection in England between May 2020 and March 2022. The study found that the mass vaccination campaign significantly reduced severe effects of the virus, with notable improvements after the emergence of Alpha, Delta, and Omicron variants.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMay 25, 2023

Why do some long Covid patients continue to have difficulty exercising?

Research reveals that chronic heart rate failure during exercise is a common reason for long-term exercise intolerance in Long COVID patients. The study also found a correlation between early post-COVID inflammation biomarkers and reduced exercise capacity, suggesting potential therapeutic targets.

SourceUniversity of California San Francisco Medical Center·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 24, 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.

Diagnosis of type 1 diabetes after SARS-CoV-2 infection: Researchers find possible correlation

A study found that children with COVID-19 were 57% more likely to develop type 1 diabetes, with the increase occurring shortly after the virus diagnosis. The researchers hope to explore this correlation further using prospective cohorts of children.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalJAMA·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 23, 2023
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

In schools, masks and air cleaners were associated with stopping COVID-19

A new study shows that masking and portable air cleaners significantly reduced the spread of SARS-CoV-2 in two Swiss schools during the Omicron wave. The researchers detected salivary and airborne virus concentrations in air samples and students, with a 70% decrease in viral transmission under mask mandates.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateMay 18, 2023

Infarction growth, penumbral consumption after reperfusion in COVID vaccine-naïve patients

A recent study found that COVID-19 infection can lead to increased infarct growth and ongoing tissue consumption even after successful reperfusion through angiography. This suggests a potentially aggressive clinical course for patients with COVID-19 and large-vessel occlusion acute ischemic stroke.

SourceAmerican Roentgen Ray Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·TypeCase study·DateMay 18, 2023

Tracking SARS-CoV-2 in Mozambique

A cutting-edge study in Mozambique found that the beta variant of SARS-CoV-2 was transmitted through regional migration from South Africa, while the delta variant entered mainly from the UK and India. The analysis also revealed that most introductions did not contribute to local spread.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalThe Lancet Global Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 16, 2023
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.

National study recommends starting SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccination three months after bone marrow transplant

A large, prospective study led by the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center recommends that cancer patients receive SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccination three to four months after bone marrow transplant. The study found that early vaccination can provide crucial protection against severe COVID-19 in this vulnerable population.

SourceFred Hutchinson Cancer Center·JournalEClinicalMedicine·TypeObservational study·DateMay 16, 2023

Experts say it’s not yet time to take off masks in the health care setting

A new commentary from infectious disease experts emphasizes the importance of continued masking in healthcare settings due to low evidence of efficacy and high transmission risks. Despite recent conflicting views, the authors argue that mask-wearing remains a crucial strategy for infection prevention.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateMay 15, 2023

SARS-CoV-2 seasonal behavior traced back to genetics and global change

Researchers at the University of Illinois have identified strong correlations between SARS-CoV-2 cases and deaths, temperature, and latitude. The studies suggest that the virus is genetically encoded to exhibit seasonal behavior, which could be influenced by vaccine design.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalEvolutionary Bioinformatics·DateMay 11, 2023
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.

Obstructive sleep apnea associated with increased risks for long COVID

A large study found that adults with obstructive sleep apnea were more likely to experience long-term symptoms of COVID-19 than those without the condition. Adults with both sleep apnea and COVID-19 were up to 75% more likely to develop long COVID, according to researchers.

SourceNIH/National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute·JournalSLEEP·DateMay 11, 2023

Chemists’ technique reveals whether antibodies neutralize SARS-CoV-2

MIT chemists develop rapid test to determine whether individuals have neutralizing antibodies against Covid-19, offering protection against future infections. The technique uses a fingerprint of sugar molecules to identify neutralizing antibodies in blood samples.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalACS Central Science·DateMay 10, 2023

Not all statins are created equal

Researchers used computational tools and medical record analysis to investigate the effects of statin drugs on COVID-19 patients. They found that only certain statins, including simvastatin and atorvastatin, reduced mortality risk in COVID-19 patients, while others had no effect.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 9, 2023

AI helps create better, simpler hepatitis, COVID-19 tests

Researchers used AI tools to simplify a test for hepatitis C and SARS-CoV-2, achieving 97% accuracy for SARS-CoV-2 and 95% accuracy for the most prevalent version of hepatitis C. The team plans to refine the test, improve its ability to distinguish between strains, and potentially develop at-home tests in the future.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalCell Reports Medicine·DateMay 8, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Engineering molecular interactions with machine learning

Researchers at EPFL have computationally designed novel protein binders that attach seamlessly to key targets, including the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, using deep learning-generated 'fingerprints' to characterize millions of protein fragments. This method demonstrates therapeutic potential for rapidly designing protein-based therapeutics.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 4, 2023

Evaluation of Waning of SARS-CoV-2 Vaccine–Induced Immunity

The study found that COVID-19 vaccine-induced immunity rapidly declines after primary vaccination and booster doses, leading to a decrease in protection against Omicron and Delta infections. The results highlight the need for targeted vaccination strategies to combat the evolving SARS-CoV-2 virus.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMay 3, 2023

UMass Chan scientists deliver siRNA therapy to lung

Researchers successfully delivered stabilized divalent siRNA molecules to animal models that blocked SARS-CoV-2 and prevented infection. The technology is adaptable for other pulmonary diseases such as pulmonary fibrosis and respiratory viruses.

SourceUMass Chan Medical School·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 2, 2023
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.

The nocebo effect may influence the side effects of the COVID-19 vaccine

A study found that psychological factors, such as beliefs and attitude towards the COVID-19 vaccine, significantly contribute to the onset and severity of adverse effects. The researchers investigated how fear, trust, and expectations affect side effects and explained 30% of the intensity of symptoms.

SourceUniversità di Bologna·JournalPsychological Science·DateMay 2, 2023

Russian researchers explain origins of dangerous coronavirus variants

Researchers have identified mechanisms behind the emergence of new and contagious coronavirus variants by analyzing over three million genome sequences. The study found that concordant substitutions occurring at other sites influence the likelihood of a substitution occurring at a specific site, leading to unexpected variant emergence.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournaleLife·DateApr 28, 2023
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Mandatory vs recommendation: Norway assessed mobility during times of mandatory and non-mandatory COVID-19 measures

Researchers found that non-mandatory measures had a greater impact on reducing travel distances and times, while mandatory measures only slightly affected these metrics. In contrast, strict metre rules and reopening of gyms increased distance travelled.

SourceEuropean Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC)·JournalEurosurveillance·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 27, 2023

Association of SARS-CoV-2 vaccination or infection with Bell palsy

A systematic review and meta-analysis found that SARS-CoV-2 infection significantly increases the risk of Bell palsy, whereas vaccination poses a lower risk. The Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine did not differ significantly from the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine in terms of BP incidence.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery·DateApr 27, 2023

Degrading viral RNA to treat SARS-CoV-2 infection

Scientists have created a system that directly targets and degrades the SARS-CoV-2 viral RNA genome, reducing infection in mice. This method could be adapted to fight off many viruses and treat various diseases.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Central Science·DateApr 26, 2023
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

BCG vaccine does not protect against COVID-19 in healthcare workers

A world-leading international trial has found that the BCG vaccine does not protect healthcare workers against COVID-19, despite boosting 'front-line' immunity in infants and protecting against respiratory infections. The research involved 3988 healthcare workers and showed a higher risk of symptomatic COVID-19 in the BCG group.

SourceMurdoch Childrens Research Institute·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateApr 26, 2023

Even as SARS-CoV-2 mutates, some human antibodies fight back

Researchers discovered a 'cocktail' of human antibodies that show promise in fighting severe SARS-CoV-2 infections, including Omicron variants. The study revealed how the original Moderna vaccine could prompt the body to produce these broad-spectrum antibodies.

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 25, 2023

Characterizing the contaminated couriers of omicron SARS-CoV-2 variants

New research found that temperature and original viral concentration affect the persistence of Omicron variants on shipping materials. The study reveals that lower temperatures and higher viral concentrations increase stability, while room temperature poses a risk. Safety protocols for shipping goods can be improved with this knowledge.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalMicrobiology Spectrum·DateApr 24, 2023

HKUMed established the first human respiratory organoid culture system and unveils a novel mechanism for the high transmissibility of SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant

A research team created the first human respiratory organoid culture system, enabling scientists to study COVID-19 and its variants. The study found that the BA.5 Omicron variant exhibits dramatically increased infectivity and replicative capacity in human nasal and airway organoids.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 20, 2023
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.

Infectious SARS-CoV-2 found in hospital air

Researchers successfully isolated infectious SARS-CoV-2 particles from hospital air samples collected over a year ago, demonstrating the presence of viable virus particles in aerosols. This breakthrough provides new insights into airborne transmission and informs the development of preventive strategies.

SourceUniversity of Montreal Hospital Research Centre (CRCHUM)·JournalClinical Microbiology and Infection·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 19, 2023

Cocktail of modified antibodies provides strong effect against SARS-CoV-2

Researchers from Lund University have designed a cocktail of modified antibodies that tag the virus to be eliminated by the immune system. The study found that combining different combinations of these antibodies can improve their function, suggesting a potent clinical effect against SARS-CoV-2 and its variants.

SourceLund University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 18, 2023
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.

Association of COVID-19 infection with incident diabetes

A large study of over 600,000 individuals found a strong association between COVID-19 infection and the development of incident diabetes. The researchers estimate that SARS-CoV-2 infection may contribute to a 3% to 5% excess burden of diabetes at a population level.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateApr 18, 2023

The potential and challenges of mucosal COVID-19 vaccines

Researchers recognize the need for improved COVID-19 vaccines to prevent transmission and infection. Mucosal vaccines targeting the respiratory tract could be effective in blocking SARS-CoV-2 transmission and reducing disease burden.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·Journalnpj Vaccines·DateApr 13, 2023
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.

Mount Sinai researchers discover novel receptors for SARS-CoV-2 and their age-dependent expression, providing new insights for public health

Researchers identified potential novel receptors for SARS-CoV-2 that utilize multiple receptors to facilitate its life cycle. The study reveals a strong correlation between tissue age-dependency and SARS-CoV-2 infection-induced receptor expression, with older adults being more susceptible to severe outcomes.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·DateApr 11, 2023

Pregnant women show robust and variable immunity during COVID-19

A study published in JCI Insight found that pregnant women display robust immune responses to SARS-CoV-2 infection, comparable to those of non-pregnant women. Key differences were observed in the dynamics of innate immune cells at the first line of defense towards viral infections.

SourceThe Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity·JournalJCI Insight·TypeCase study·DateApr 11, 2023
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.

Finding a way to combat long COVID

Researchers identified potential neurological biomarkers of long COVID-19 in nonhuman primates, which could aid in diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment. The study found elevated proteins associated with neurodegenerative disorders in the brain, cerebrospinal fluid, and blood after SARS-CoV-2 infection.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalMolecular & Cellular Proteomics·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 5, 2023

New study shows SARS-CoV-2 infection accelerates the progression of dementia

Researchers found that COVID-19 infection leads to rapidly progressive dementia, blurring the lines between different types of dementia. Cortical atrophy and inflammation were key indicators, suggesting previously compromised brains have limited defense against new insults.

SourceIOS Press·JournalJournal of Alzheimer s Disease Reports·TypeObservational study·DateApr 4, 2023

Spike protein implicated in post-COVID-19 memory loss, Brazilian study finds

A recent Brazilian study found that the Spike protein from SARS-CoV-2 is implicated in post-COVID-19 memory loss, with researchers identifying TLR4 receptor as a potential therapeutic target. The study involved experiments with mice and showed that infusion of the Spike protein induced delayed memory impairment.

SourceInstituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia de Biologia Estrutural e Bioimagem (INBEB)·JournalCell Reports·DateApr 3, 2023
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.

WPI-led team uncovers new details of SARS-COV-2 structure

A WPI-led team used computational modeling to create a detailed picture of the SARS-COV-2 virus envelope, revealing its elliptical shape and changing structure. This discovery could lead to more effective therapies and vaccines, as well as a better understanding of the virus's properties.

SourceWorcester Polytechnic Institute·JournalStructure·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 30, 2023

Research Brief: Study finds evidence of resistance to COVID-19 drugs

A study published in Science Advances reveals that viral SARS-CoV-2 variants are developing resistance to protease inhibitors, including Paxlovid. Researchers warn that this could undermine the effectiveness of antiviral treatments and highlight the need for next-generation compounds with different resistance profiles.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota Medical School·JournalScience Advances·TypeObservational study·DateMar 29, 2023

Coronavirus causes chaos in infected cells’ RNA

Researchers found that SARS-CoV-2 infection causes drastic changes to RNA modifications, including the loss of m6A modification. This disruption may lead to persistent COVID-like symptoms and provide a new potential drug target against COVID-19. The study's results could also shed light on chronic post-COVID conditions.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalGenome Research·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 29, 2023
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.

ORNL-led team designs molecule to disrupt SARS-CoV-2 infection

A team of scientists has designed a molecule that targets the PLpro enzyme in SARS-CoV-2, limiting its replication and hampering the host's immune response. The covalent inhibitor shows promise as a new treatment for COVID-19 and other viral diseases.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 28, 2023

COVID vaccine induces robust T cell responses in blood cancer patients

Researchers found that COVID-19 vaccination generates robust T cell responses in haematology patients, on par with healthy individuals. The study provides key insights for future immunisation strategies and shows that mRNA vaccines can elicit strong T cell immunity in patients with co-morbidities.

SourceThe Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity·JournalCell Reports Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateMar 28, 2023
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.

Why subvariants of the SARS-CoV-2 virus accelerated the pandemic

A new study by UC San Diego researchers found that COVID-19 subvariants like BA.4 and BA.5 evaded the body's natural defense, leading to rapid spread. Early treatment with Paxlovid may have left patients more susceptible to re-infection due to a weakened immune response.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalOpen Forum Infectious Diseases·DateMar 22, 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.

New SARS-CoV-2 target could boost immunity against all coronaviruses

Researchers have identified a highly conserved region of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein that could be targeted to boost human antibody responses against any coronavirus. The discovery could aid the development of more powerful antibody drugs and vaccines against COVID-19 and emerging coronaviruses.

SourceeLife·JournaleLife·DateMar 21, 2023