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Swine Flu vaccination: voluntary system works

Researchers found that individuals with multiple social connections, or hub nodes, are more likely to vaccinate themselves and contain the spread of epidemics. This voluntary vaccination method can lead to periodic outbreaks, but ultimately settle into a stable state due to the majority of individuals choosing vaccination.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalNew Journal of Physics·DateFeb 11, 2010

Mass vaccination unnecessary in the event of a large bioterrorist US smallpox attack

A recent study suggests that prompt surveillance and containment of victims would be sufficient to thwart an epidemic in the event of a large bioterrorist US smallpox attack. Researchers found that mass pre-vaccination of the general population may not be necessary, as the benefits of vaccination are outweighed by potential side effects.

SourceFred Hutchinson Cancer Center·JournalInternational Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateOct 16, 2006

HIV gets a makeover

Researchers at Rockefeller University developed a modified HIV virus that can infect both human and monkey cells, paving the way for more effective vaccine testing. By manipulating key proteins, they created a 'simian tropic HIV' (stHIV) that replicates vigorously in primate cells.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalScience·DateOct 10, 2006

Screensavers of the world, unite!

Distributed computing is revolutionizing the way scientists solve complex computational problems, enabling breakthroughs in astronomy and biology. The Stanford-led project Folding@home has taken off, with over 10,000 volunteers contributing their home computers to protein folding research.

SourceStanford University·JournalScience·DateDec 7, 2000

New treatment makes fruit juices safer

Researchers at the University of Florida have developed a new treatment method using carbon dioxide to eliminate bacteria from fresh fruit juice, preserving its flavor and appearance. The process is as effective as heat pasteurization in reducing pathogens, but without the undesirable taste change.

Scientists Extend The Life Span Of Human Cells

Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center discover that telomerase causes human cells to retain their youth and continue dividing beyond their normal limit. The extension of normal cell lifespan in a youthful state presents numerous opportunities for biotechnology and medicine, including producing engineered products in human cells.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalScience·DateJan 13, 1998