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Tuberculosis vaccine does not protect elderly against COVID-19

A large Dutch study found that the BCG vaccine does not protect elderly people with co-morbidities against COVID-19 symptoms. The study analyzed 6,112 participants and showed no difference in disease manifestations or hospitalizations between those who received the vaccine and those who received a placebo.

SourceUniversity Medical Center Utrecht·JournalClinical Microbiology and Infection·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 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.

Artificial intelligence aids discovery of super tight-binding antibodies

UC San Diego scientists developed an AI-based strategy for discovering high-affinity antibody drugs, identifying a new antibody that binds 17 times tighter than an existing one. The approach accelerates the discovery process, reducing failure rates and enabling faster development of novel cancer and COVID-19 treatments.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 30, 2023

Gillings study shows updated bivalent boosters are more effective at preventing hospitalization and death from Omicron

A peer-reviewed study published in The New England Journal of Medicine found that updated bivalent mRNA vaccines are more effective than original monovalent boosters at preventing COVID-19 hospitalization and death. Booster effectiveness peaked at four weeks after receipt and waned afterward, with average effectiveness against severe i...

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 25, 2023

TB vaccination could be overall cost-effective in 73 of 105 LMICs (70%) and produce economic benefits of US $474 billion by 2050, per modelling study by researchers at Harvard, LSHTM, the WHO and IAVI

A new study suggests TB vaccination could be overall cost-effective in 73 of 105 low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), with potential economic benefits of US $474 billion by 2050. The modeling study, published in PLOS Medicine, found that vaccination could save billions of dollars annually.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 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.

Covid-19: On the lookout for new antibodies

A team of researchers found that repeated vaccinations with the Comirnaty mRNA vaccine lead to an increased number of non-inflammatory, spike-specific IgG4 antibodies. These antibodies show promise in providing protection against SARS-CoV-2 and its variants.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalScience Immunology·DateJan 11, 2023

UNF study finds dual COVID and flu vaccination reduces infection rates

A recent University of North Florida study found that dual COVID-19 and seasonal influenza vaccinations significantly reduce reported COVID-19 infection rates. Individuals with dual vaccination were less likely to report COVID-19 infection compared to those unvaccinated, but symptom severity showed no significant difference.

SourceUniversity of North Florida·JournalVaccine·TypeContent analysis·DateJan 10, 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.

COVID-19 vaccine acceptance increased globally in 2022

A new survey of 23 countries found that global willingness to accept a COVID-19 vaccine increased from 75.2% in 2021 to 79.1% in 2022. However, eight countries experienced an increase in hesitancy, and nearly one in eight vaccinated respondents were hesitant about receiving booster doses. The survey also revealed variations in vaccine ...

SourceCUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy·JournalNature Medicine·TypeSurvey·DateJan 9, 2023

COVID-19 vaccines, prior infection reduce transmission of Omicron

A study in California prisons found that recent vaccination and boosters significantly reduced infectiousness of COVID-19, with a 11% decrease per additional dose. Prior infection also provided protection, with a 23% risk of transmission compared to 33% for those who had never been infected.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNature Medicine·DateJan 2, 2023

Conspiracy believers more likely to endorse mythical causes of cancer

A study published in The BMJ found that people who believe in conspiracies and reject the covid-19 vaccine are more likely to endorse mythical causes of cancer than non-conspiracists. However, awareness of actual causes of cancer is generally higher among these groups.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·TypeObservational study·DateDec 21, 2022
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.

Town and country: Urban and rural differences in Mpox vaccination and testing

A new study published in The Journal of Rural Health found that urban men who have sex with men (MSM) are more likely to get vaccinated and tested for Mpox than their rural counterparts. The study also revealed that rural MSM perceived themselves as less susceptible to the disease and had lower intention to be vaccinated.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalThe Journal of Rural Health·DateDec 19, 2022

Studies find Omicron related hospitalisations lower in severity than Delta and Pfizer-BioNTech COVID vaccine remains effective in preventing hospitalisations

Researchers found that adult hospitalisations from Omicron-related SARS-CoV-2 infections were less severe than those from Delta infections. The Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine was effective in preventing hospitalisations and severe outcomes, even with increasing Omicron variant transmissibility.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalThe Lancet Regional Health - Europe·TypeObservational study·DateDec 13, 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.

Attitudes around COVID-19 vaccination are linked to increased traffic risks

A new study in The American Journal of Medicine found that adults who neglect COVID-19 vaccination may also neglect basic road safety guidelines. Unvaccinated individuals were more likely to be involved in traffic crashes, with a 72% increased relative risk compared to those vaccinated.

SourceElsevier·JournalThe American Journal of Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 12, 2022

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
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.

Polarization after COVID-19: Global study published in Nature reveals that the unvaccinated face prejudice in most countries

A global study published in Nature finds that the unvaccinated face significant prejudice in most countries, with many vaccinated people harboring discriminatory attitudes towards them. The study suggests that this prejudice could lead to severe consequences for society, including hindered vaccination uptake and increased mistrust.

SourceAarhus University·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 8, 2022

New STAT1-us quo? Novel STAT1 variants cause MSMD

Researchers from Tokyo Medical and Dental University discovered three novel STAT1 variants that cause Mendelian susceptibility to mycobacterial disease (MSMD) in response to the BCG vaccine. The variants result in loss of function of the STAT1 protein, preventing an appropriate immune response.

SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·JournalJournal of Clinical Immunology·DateDec 8, 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.

Tablet-based vaccine prevents urinary tract infections in mice

A new tablet-based vaccine has shown long-lasting protection against bacteria that cause urinary tract infections (UTIs) in mice. The vaccine was found to be comparable to antibiotics in efficacy, with durable antibody responses lasting for the lifetime of a mouse.

SourceDuke University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 28, 2022
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.

Using big data to make better vaccines

A team of scientists at Boston Children's Hospital created a new tool to analyze vaccine responses, enabling better understanding of immune system reactions. The Immune Signatures Data Resource contains data from 53 studies covering 24 different vaccines.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalScientific Data·DateNov 15, 2022

CHOP researchers find COVID-19 vaccination leads to higher antibody levels than natural infection in both pregnant people and their babies

A study by Children's Hospital of Philadelphia researchers found that COVID-19 vaccination results in higher antibody concentrations compared to natural infection, providing robust protection for mothers during pregnancy. The study also suggests optimal vaccine timing can maximize the transfer of antibodies to babies.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateNov 9, 2022

Which COVID vaccine you get can impact myocarditis risk

A study found that males younger than 40 years old who received the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine had the highest rates of myocarditis, but overall cases are rare. The study suggests that choosing specific vaccines for certain populations may maximize benefits and minimize adverse events.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateNov 7, 2022

Flu vaccine lowers risk of stroke

Researchers at the University of Calgary found that vaccination against influenza significantly lowers the risk of stroke among adults. The study analyzed health records of over four million Albertans and showed that the risk of stroke was reduced in all age groups, not just those at high risk.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalThe Lancet Public Health·TypeObservational study·DateNov 2, 2022
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.

Vaccine uptake remains low among at-risk Canadians

Researchers from McGill University found that pneumococcal vaccination uptake is low among adults at high risk in Canada. Despite the importance of pneumococcal vaccination to prevent pneumonia and other forms of pneumococcal disease, many people missed opportunities for vaccination.

SourceMcGill University·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 2, 2022

Efficient nanovaccine delivery system boosts cellular immunity

A research group at Osaka Metropolitan University developed a nanovaccine that delivers cancer antigens to dendritic cells, inducing strong cellular immunity. The new system, using positively charged cationic lipids, increases cytokine production by approximately 100 times compared to previous designs.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalJournal of Controlled Release·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 31, 2022
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.

Monoclonal antibody prevents malaria infection in African adults

A monoclonal antibody was found to be up to 88.2% effective at preventing malaria infection in healthy, non-pregnant adults during a six-month malaria season in Mali, Africa. The study suggests that this antibody could complement other measures to protect vulnerable groups from seasonal malaria.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateOct 31, 2022

‘Prime and Spike’ nasal vaccine strategy helps combat COVID

A Yale-designed 'Prime and Spike' nasal vaccine approach can help combat COVID-19 by bolstering immune responses in the respiratory system. The strategy, which involves a combination of a prime vaccination and a spike protein booster administered directly into the nostril, has been shown to reduce viral shedding and transmission.

SourceYale University·JournalScience·DateOct 27, 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.

Do financial incentives increase adult vaccinations? A view of lessons learned

A review of COVID-19 and other adult vaccination efforts found that cash transfers and lottery programs had limited outcomes in increasing vaccination rates, with some studies showing a slight over 2% increase in coverage. Non-cash incentives also showed no significant impact on vaccination uptake.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalVaccine X·DateOct 25, 2022

Variation in HPV vaccination effectiveness by age at vaccination

A recent study published in JAMA Network Open found that human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination effectiveness differs significantly depending on the age at which it is administered. The researchers analyzed self-reported data from female participants and discovered that HPV vaccination is most effective when administered earlier in life.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateOct 21, 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic decreased child routine vaccination coverage and increased vaccine delays in India.

The COVID-19 pandemic led to a marked decrease in routine childhood immunization rates in India, with significant implications for the country's immunization program and COVID-19 recovery policies. The study highlights the urgent need for catch-up vaccination campaigns and investments in health systems.

SourceCenter for Disease Dynamics, Economics & Policy·JournalThe Lancet Regional Health - Southeast Asia·DateOct 21, 2022

Researchers explore gene interactions in influenza to help improve accuracy of flu vaccines

Researchers found that reduced NA activity enables HA mutations to become more neutral, and that this process is crucial for predicting future flu strains. The study aims to improve flu vaccine accuracy by understanding the interactions between HA and NA genes.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalCell Host & Microbe·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 18, 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.

Study suggests support across Europe for COVID-19 vaccine equity

A survey of six European countries found strong public support for transferring COVID-19 vaccines to poorer nations and prioritizing those with the greatest need. Europeans consistently prioritized individuals most vulnerable, employed individuals, or those who lost income during the pandemic over unemployed individuals.

SourceeLife·JournaleLife·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

Danish-led study takes major step in pursuit of HIV cure

A new Danish-led study has demonstrated a way to strengthen the body's own ability to fight HIV, even when standard treatment is paused. The study found that monoclonal antibodies and Romidepsin can help the immune system recognize and kill infected cells.

SourceAarhus University·JournalNature Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 17, 2022
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.

How does social behavior lead to clusters of vaccine hesitancy?

Researchers created theoretical models to explain geographical clustering of vaccine hesitancy, attributing it to both social selection and social influence. The models found that these two processes independently generate clusters of high hesitancy, with social selection playing a key role when societies trust propaganda.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 13, 2022

Independent Task Force on COVID-19 and other Pandemics: origins, prevention, and response

The Independent Task Force Report emphasizes the need for a One Health approach to prevent or respond adequately to the next pandemic. Key findings highlight the importance of 'Smart Surveillance' to identify high-threat pathogens and invest in R&D for innovative diagnostics, antiviral strategies, and therapeutic research.

SourceEcoHealth Alliance·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeLiterature review·DateOct 10, 2022

No quick fix for COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among UK South Asian communities

New research highlights the need for comprehensive approaches to address COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in UK South Asian communities, citing factors such as trust in authorities and media. The study's findings emphasize the complexity of the issue, beyond simplistic 'pro' or 'anti' Vaccine views.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of the Royal Society of Medicine·DateOct 4, 2022

New zika vaccine shows promise in animal models

Researchers developed a highly effective and safe Zika vaccine technology that prevents systemic infection in pregnant mice and stimulates an immunogenic reaction. The vaccine was tested in various mouse models, proving safe and protective against the virus.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalMicrobiology Spectrum·DateSep 28, 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.

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

HPV vaccinations before, during pandemic

Researchers found that HPV vaccination rates rose significantly during the pandemic, particularly among younger children and adolescents. The study suggests that the increased vaccination rates may be attributed to changes in healthcare access and scheduling.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateSep 19, 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.

COVID-19 vaccination rates at NYC schools varied significantly by race/ethnicity and borough

A recent study found that COVID-19 vaccination rates in NYC schools differed significantly by race and ethnicity, with majority Asian students having the highest rate at 66.2%. Vaccination rates also varied by borough, with Manhattan having the highest rate and Staten Island the lowest. The study suggests that understanding these diffe...

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 15, 2022

How human cells become Zika virus factories

Researchers at La Jolla Institute for Immunology discovered how Zika virus forces dendritic cells to churn out lipid molecules, allowing the virus to build copies of itself. This study provides a major step forward in developing antiviral therapies against multiple flavivirus infections.

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 12, 2022

Clinical trial evaluating monkeypox vaccine begins

A clinical trial evaluating alternative strategies for administering the JYNNEOS monkeypox vaccine has begun enrolling adult volunteers. The trial aims to expand the vaccine supply and provide important information on immunogenicity, safety, and tolerability of alternative dosing approaches.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·DateSep 8, 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.