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Researchers identify genetic makeup of new strains of West Nile

The study reveals the variety of strains circulating in different regions and their association with mosquito species. Understanding these genetic differences can help predict where viral transmission may occur and inform disease severity and symptoms.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalFrontiers in Veterinary Science·DateJun 6, 2023

AI software can provide ‘roadmap’ for biological discoveries

Researchers updated their protein localization prediction model, MULocDeep, to provide more targeted predictions for biological discoveries. The tool helps researchers design more effective experiments and advance scientific discoveries related to drug development and treating diseases like epilepsy.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateJun 2, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Women are more likely to experience repeat cases of Toxoplasmosis eye disease

A new study by Flinders University research team led by Professor Justine Smith has found that women are more likely to experience recurrent cases of toxoplasmosis eye disease. The study also revealed significant differences in the type and characteristics of the disease between men and women.

SourceFlinders University·JournalBritish Journal of Ophthalmology·TypeCase study·DateJun 1, 2023

Genetic change increased bird flu severity during U.S. spread

Scientists at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital discovered how the current H5N1 avian influenza virus gained new genes and greater virulence as it spread across North America. The researchers found that the virus could severely infect the brains of mammalian research models, a notable departure from previous related strains.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 30, 2023

Avian influenza: new aspects of an old threat

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control highlights the rapid spread of avian influenza viruses worldwide, affecting wild bird populations and mammals. The authors warn that human infections with A(H5N1) can be severe and increase the risk of reassortment with mammalian viruses.

SourceEuropean Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC)·JournalEurosurveillance·DateMay 12, 2023

Gene-edited calf may reduce reliance on antimicrobials against cattle disease

A gene-edited calf, named Ginger, has been born with reduced susceptibility to a major viral pathogen, bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV). If confirmed by follow-up research, this approach could offer long-term potential to reduce antimicrobial and antibiotic use in the cattle industry.

SourceUniversity of Nebraska-Lincoln·JournalPNAS Nexus·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 9, 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.

Texas A&M research redefines mammalian tree of life

The study reveals that mammals diversified before the K-Pg extinction, driven by continental drifting and stability following the mass extinction. This led to the rich diversity of mammal lineages, including carnivores, primates, and hoofed animals.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalScience·DateApr 28, 2023

Massive Caribbean sea urchin die-off caused by parasite

A parasite identified as Philaster apodigitiformis has been found responsible for the massive die-off of long-spined sea urchins in the Caribbean Sea. The loss of these vital herbivores threatens coral reef health and balance, with devastating consequences for marine ecosystems.

SourceCornell University·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 19, 2023

Female butterflies breed despite male shortage

Despite a parasite killing most males, female monarch butterflies still find mates about 1.5 times on average, suggesting high reproductive success throughout the year round. Uninfected females produce healthy male offspring, allowing the parasite to be transmitted in rare populations.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalEcology and Evolution·DateApr 17, 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.

Bushmeat consumption unchanged by COVID-19 in Kenya and Tanzania border towns, new study reveals

A new study found that despite awareness of COVID-19 risks, bushmeat consumption remained unchanged in rural communities along the Kenya-Tanzania border. Education levels played a critical role in understanding disease transmission. Increased food costs caused by regulations led to increased bushmeat consumption.

SourceInternational Livestock Research Institute·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and Evolution·TypeSurvey·DateApr 6, 2023

Newly discovered probiotic could protect Caribbean corals threatened by deadly, devastating disease

Researchers have identified a probiotic that can protect Caribbean corals from stony coral tissue loss disease (SCTLD), a deadly and rapidly spreading affliction. The probiotic treatment has been shown to stop or slow the progression of the disease in infected coral fragments, offering an antibiotic-free alternative.

SourceSmithsonian·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 6, 2023

Survival is a disgusting matter

A recent study published in Journal of Animal Ecology has identified disease avoidance strategies in various animal species, including humans. The research provides insights into how emotions like disgust help protect against diseases and has implications for human health and conservation efforts.

SourceKyoto University·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 5, 2023

UMass Amherst research finds surprising science behind bumblebee superfood

A new study found that sunflower pollen's spiny structure reduces infection of a common bee parasite by 81-94% and increases the production of queen bumblebees. The research also suggests that other flowers in the sunflower family may have similar disease-fighting powers.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalFunctional Ecology·DateApr 5, 2023

White-tailed deer blood kills bacteria that causes Lyme disease

A new study published in Vector-borne and Zoonotic Diseases demonstrates that the serum of white-tailed deer blood is lethal to the Lyme disease bacterium, Borrelia burgdorferi. The researchers hope this discovery may lead to new strategies for preventing and treating Lyme disease.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalVector-Borne and Zoonotic Diseases·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 30, 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.

News coverage highlights some threats to deer conservation but may mislead or omit key information

A study analyzed news reports on Brazilian deer species between 2011 and 2021, finding that news coverage gave different weights to threats compared to the IUCN Red List. News items properly identified main threats like poaching and habitat loss but underestimated livestock diseases and overestimated road kill.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalBiological Conservation·DateMar 15, 2023

Changing landscapes alter disease-scapes: Study

Researchers used cumulative pressure mapping and machine learning to understand the impact of human pressures on six vector-borne diseases. They found that changes in land use can lead to abrupt shifts in infectious disease burdens and public health needs.

SourceGriffith University·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 13, 2023

Malaria infection harms wild African apes

New research on malaria-infected bonobos shows that the infection harms them, too, with symptoms including fever and increased mortality risk. The study also finds that bonobos have a protective variant of an immune gene similar to one found in humans, suggesting a selective advantage for those individuals.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 23, 2023

Deer protected from deadly disease by newly discovered genetic differences

Researchers identified genetic variants associated with susceptibility to Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease (EHD) in white-tailed deer. The study found that deer with specific mutations are less susceptible to the disease, which has been on the rise in northern Illinois and neighboring states.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalGenes·DateFeb 23, 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.

New synthetic skin may unlock blood-sucking secrets of mosquitoes

Researchers have developed a new synthetic skin, made of hydrogels, to study how mosquitoes transmit deadly diseases. The hydrogel system can mimic different blood vessel patterns, allowing for more consistent testing and analysis. This breakthrough may help identify ways to prevent the spread of disease.

SourceTulane University·JournalFrontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 9, 2023

Statistics remove bias from debate about how well mouse models mimic human disease

A team of biostatisticians created a framework to evaluate the congruence and discordance of laboratory animals with specific human diseases. The tool removes bias from scientific interpretation of animal data for human conditions, revealing that some models mimic biological mechanisms well while others poorly.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 2, 2023

Despite concerns over antimicrobial resistance, global antimicrobial use in animals could increase by 8% by 2030 if stronger restrictions are not applied worldwide

A new study predicts global antimicrobial use in food-producing animals will increase by 8% by 2030 if stronger regulations are not implemented worldwide. The findings highlight the need for stricter controls on antimicrobial use, which has raised concerns over antimicrobial resistance.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Global Public Health·DateFeb 1, 2023

Small, convenient mosquito repellent device passes test to protect military personnel

A new, portable mosquito repellent device has been tested successfully in a four-week semi-field study, showing effectiveness in preventing multiple species of mosquitos from entering the testing site. The device uses transfluthrin as a spatial repellent and eliminates the need for applying topical repellents or insecticides.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalCurrent Research in Parasitology and Vector-Borne Diseases·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 27, 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.

Parasite common in cats causes abortion in bighorn sheep

Researchers found Toxoplasma gondii infection causing abortions and neonatal deaths in bighorn sheep. The parasite is believed to be spread by domestic and wild cats, raising concerns for conservation efforts.

SourceWashington State University·JournalJournal of Wildlife Diseases·DateJan 24, 2023

Study proves that antivenom reduces risk of skin necrosis in patients bitten by brown recluse spider

A six-year study involving 146 patients found that antivenom reduced the risk of skin necrosis in those bitten by brown recluse spiders. Administration of the substance was safe with minimal adverse effects, particularly when given within 48 hours of the incident.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·TypeObservational study·DateJan 11, 2023

Texas A&M research aims to improve Lyme disease diagnostics

Researchers at Texas A&M University are testing Raman spectroscopy as a diagnostic tool for Lyme disease, which shows promise in accurately identifying infected individuals. The new test could improve Lyme disease diagnosis and treatment outcomes for both humans and animals.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalFrontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology·DateJan 6, 2023
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.

Atopic dermatitis in dogs linked to certain parts of the genome

Research by Uppsala University and Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences links atopic dermatitis in dogs to specific genome regions. The study identifies genes coinciding with human atopic eczema, including the filaggrin gene region.

SourceUppsala University·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 9, 2022

Bat virus receptor studies vital to predict spillover risk

New research reveals that bat virus relatives of MERS-CoV efficiently bind to bat ACE2 receptors as an entry point into cells. However, these viruses only weakly bind to human ACE2 cell receptors and are not known to cause disease outbreaks in people.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 7, 2022

New rat lungworm disease resource to help doctors with diagnosis, treatment

A new review paper aims to educate medical professionals on diagnosing and treating rat lungworm disease, which is expected to spread globally due to climate change. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical in reducing the risk of complications such as long-term disability.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalAmerican Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene·TypeLiterature review·DateDec 6, 2022

Tick-borne pathogens increasingly widespread in Central Canada

Researchers have detected five emerging tick-borne pathogens in Central Canada, including those causing Lyme disease and babesiosis. Climate change and habitat fragmentation contribute to the spread of these pathogens, highlighting the need for increased awareness and protection measures.

SourceUniversity of Ottawa·JournalVector-Borne and Zoonotic Diseases·TypeMeta-analysis·DateNov 17, 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.

Fluorescent mouse blood will help us gain knowledge about brain diseases

Scientists have created a way to track brain diseases like depression, Alzheimer's, and strokes using fluorescent mouse blood. The method allows for months-long study of blood flow in the brain, providing new insights into disease progression and development.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 14, 2022

Molecular fingerprint behind beautiful pearls revealed

Researchers from OIST have sequenced the genome of pearl oysters, finding key differences between chromosome pairs that could impact immunity and pearl production. The study aims to identify resilient strains for aquaculture, addressing declining pearl production in Japan.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalDNA Research·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 9, 2022

Ticked off: New device may offer a better way to prevent tick bites

A new controlled-release device has been tested at UMass Amherst for its effectiveness in preventing tick bites. The device uses synthetic pyrethroids to create a spatial repellent that alters the behavior of ticks, making them less likely to climb and more likely to detach or fall off. The results show promising promise in reducing th...

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateNov 8, 2022

Intensified meat production in response to climate change would bring short-term rewards, long-term risks

A new analysis finds that intensified meat production can bring short-term rewards, such as decreased deforestation, but long-term risks, including the spread of zoonotic diseases like avian influenza. The study suggests that shifting to plant-rich options and supporting forest protections may be necessary to mitigate these risks.

SourceNew York University·JournalScience Advances·TypeSystematic review·DateNov 2, 2022

Unlocking hidden connections between cell death and inflammation

Researchers have discovered that mutations in mitochondrial-related genes can trigger hyperinflammation, leading to diseases such as Crohn's disease and tuberculosis. The study found that these mutations lead to a new type of cell death called necroptosis, which causes an aggressive inflammatory immune response.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalCell·DateNov 2, 2022
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.

Sickly shades of grey: Disease outbreaks influence the color of wolves across North America

Research from the University of Oxford and Yellowstone National Park found that wolves with black coats are more likely to survive canine distemper virus (CDV) outbreaks. This suggests that the gene for a black coat may provide protection against the virus, leading to its increased frequency in areas with CDV outbreaks.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalScience·TypeObservational study·DateOct 20, 2022

Pandemic prep needs ‘smart surveillance’ to predict viral spillovers

The article highlights the need for a unified approach to prevent and respond to pandemics by adopting a One Health strategy. This involves targeted preparedness, drug and vaccine research, and worldwide cooperation on surveillance and stopping disease spread.

SourceOhio State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 10, 2022
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Mapping disease risk at human-wildlife ‘hotspots’

Researchers mapped the spread of pathogens in wild macaque populations near human settlements, finding that monkeys with high human interactions cause larger outbreaks. The study used computer simulations to predict disease transmission and identified key factors influencing outbreak size.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 3, 2022

New therapeutic target could check the progress of Alzheimer’s disease

A new study proposes reducing toxic proteins in the blood as a potential therapy for Alzheimer's disease. By doing so, it aims to improve memory and learning capacity, as well as correct cognitive impairments. The next step is to test this treatment at a clinical level.

SourceUniversity of Malaga·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 23, 2022

Disease ecologist investigates ‘stealthy’ pathogen in Iraq

A new three-year project aims to strengthen biosurveillance of brucellosis in human and animal populations in Iraq. The team will use genomic sequencing to understand the disease's prevalence, risk factors, genetic diversity, and transmission, with a focus on the 'One Health' concept.

SourceNorthern Arizona University·DateSep 13, 2022

Surrounded by sick coworkers? Your body is preparing for battle.

Chapman University biologist Patricia C. Lopes' research shows that our bodies can shift into defense mode before becoming sick, triggered by information from diseased individuals. This physiology change could have major impacts on disease spread and human care.

SourceChapman University·JournalFunctional Ecology·DateAug 29, 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.

Slugs, snails are not alone in causing rat lungworm disease in humans

Research reveals that 32 species of animals, including prawns, crabs, and lizards, can act as carriers of the rat lungworm parasite, which can cause serious illness and death. The study aims to raise awareness about paratenic hosts and prevent infection by avoiding eating raw or infected animals.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalOne Health·TypeLiterature review·DateAug 25, 2022

Scientists create a DNA test that identifies Lyme disease in horses

A Rutgers scientist has developed a highly sensitive DNA test that can detect Lyme disease in horses, a condition that can cause long-term complications. The test, called genomic hybrid capture assay, was tested on a sick horse and successfully identified the pathogen, allowing for early diagnosis and treatment.

SourceRutgers University·JournalJournal of Veterinary Diagnostic Investigation·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 17, 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.

WVU researcher making sense of brain circuits with $1.6M NSF grant

A WVU researcher is studying corollary discharge circuits in fruit flies to better understand how the brain integrates sensory information and coordinate movement. The goal of this research is to shed light on human disease and human performance, with potential applications for improving fighter pilot safety.

SourceWest Virginia University·DateAug 9, 2022

Is brain fog limited to humans?

A study found that brain fog-like impairment is a problem in many animal species due to infection and disease, including humans. Cognitive impairments have been observed in birds, bees, rats, and other species, with various causes such as parasite damage, immune response, and malnutrition.

SourceHamilton College·JournalCell·TypeLiterature review·DateAug 8, 2022

Male dogs four times more likely to develop contagious cancer on nose or mouth than females

A new study by University of Cambridge researchers found that male dogs are four to five times more likely than female dogs to be infected with the oro-nasal form of Canine Transmissible Venereal Tumour. This unusual cancer is infectious and can spread between dogs through contact, commonly affecting genitals but also the nose and mouth.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalVeterinary Record·DateJul 3, 2022
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.

Genetic discovery could spell mosquitoes’ death knell

A UC Riverside genetic discovery found that mosquitoes lack the primary ecdysone transporter, allowing researchers to develop a mosquito-specific insecticide. This breakthrough could help control Zika, dengue, and other virus-carrying mosquitoes without harming beneficial insects.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 15, 2022
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.

Using Artificial Intelligence to Predict Life-Threatening Bacterial Disease in Dogs

Veterinarians at UC Davis have developed an AI model that can predict Leptospirosis in dogs with high accuracy, outperforming traditional testing methods. The model uses machine-learning algorithms to analyze historical data and provide timely predictions, which can be an online resource for veterinarians.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalJournal of Veterinary Diagnostic Investigation·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 23, 2022