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COVID-19 and diabetes: what is the evidence?

A recent report found that people with type 1 diabetes had almost a 3-fold risk of death from COVID-19, while those with type 2 diabetes had an almost 2 times higher risk. High blood glucose levels are associated with poor outcomes in patients with COVID-19.

SourceDiabetologia·DateSep 22, 2020

USC/Princeton study finds middle-aged americans report more pain than the elderly

A new study found that middle-aged Americans without a college degree report higher levels of pain than older Americans. The research team analyzed data from over 2.5 million adults and found that each generation of less-educated Americans experiences more pain throughout their lives.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 21, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

How birth control, girls' education can slow population growth

A study by Daphne Liu and Adrian Raftery found that contraceptive prevalence has a significantly greater impact on fertility decline than unmet need. Education also affects fertility, particularly through girls' early educational attainment, which can discourage families from having more children.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalPopulation and Development Review·DateSep 8, 2020

Who should get the COVID-19 vaccine first?

A new model prioritizes countries based on premature deaths caused by COVID-19, focusing on mitigating three types of harms: death and permanent organ damage, indirect health consequences, and economic destruction. The Fair Priority Model aims to reduce premature deaths and other irreversible health consequences from COVID-19.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalScience·DateSep 3, 2020

Living in disadvantaged neighborhoods doubles post-op delirium risk for older adults

A recent study by researchers from the Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research found that older adults living in disadvantaged neighborhoods are two times more likely to experience delirium after surgery. Delirium is a clinical syndrome characterized by acute decline in cognition, which can present as inattention, disorien...

SourceHebrew SeniorLife Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateAug 31, 2020
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Cigarette-like 'cigarillos' flout efforts to curb smoking

Researchers warn that the introduction of 'cigarillos' to the UK market is exploiting loopholes in public health measures, targeting cigarette smokers with low-cost products. The authors advocate for urgent adjustments to the tax system to raise pack prices and reduce the incentives behind these products.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalTobacco Control·DateAug 27, 2020

Generic public health messages work best at shifting dietary behaviours

Researchers at the University of Bath found that generic public health messages are more effective than tailored advice in shifting dietary habits. Participants who received generic information selected food baskets with less total fat and spent 34% less on unhealthy items compared to those who received no information.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalEuropean Economic Review·DateAug 20, 2020
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.

Research recommends integrated approaches to managing reniform nematodes in cotton

Researchers at Mississippi State University recommend using an integrated approach that combines seed-applied nematicides with in-furrow nematicides to manage reniform nematodes in cotton. This approach can improve cotton yields while reducing production costs, making it a economically viable option for farmers.

SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalPlant Health Progress·DateAug 13, 2020

Nutrition labelling is improving nation's diet - new study

A new study finds that Front-of-Pack labelling on food products leads to a reduction in the quantity of labelled store-branded food purchased and an overall improvement in nutritional composition of consumers' shopping baskets. The study, published in the Journal of Health Economics, shows significant improvements in poorer households.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalJournal of Health Economics·DateAug 12, 2020

Eye-tracking tech helps aged care assessment

Researchers used eye-tracking technology to investigate how older adults process information and make decisions about their care. The study found that eye-tracking can inform the design of assessments and improve the inclusivity of older people with cognitive impairment.

SourceFlinders University·JournalApplied Health Economics and Health Policy·DateAug 3, 2020
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.

Study identifies top reasons for sewer line failure

A new study identifies weak concrete and heavy trucks as the top reasons for sewer line failure. The researchers used statistical analysis to show that these factors are most likely to trigger a problem among common causes of sewer pipe failure.

SourceOhio State University·JournalStructure and Infrastructure Engineering·DateJul 27, 2020

Preventing the next pandemic

A team of researchers argues that investing $30 billion annually could pay for itself quickly by preventing the emergence of new viral pathogens. The proposed strategy focuses on monitoring and regulating the wildlife trade and reducing tropical deforestation, which are linked to two-thirds of emerging diseases in the past 50 years.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalScience·DateJul 23, 2020

Assess the effects of alcohol control policies in the Baltics

A new international research project aims to evaluate the impact of alcohol control policies on morbidity and mortality in Lithuania and other Baltic states. The study, led by CAMH and the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, will investigate the effectiveness of policy interventions implemented between 2016 and 2018.

SourceCentre for Addiction and Mental Health·DateJul 16, 2020
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.

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.

Access to nature requires attention when addressing community health needs

A new study highlights the importance of access to nature in addressing community health needs, citing benefits to physical, mental, and social health. Researchers recommend incorporating assessments of nature access into patient encounters and refer patients to community groups increasing green areas.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateJul 9, 2020

Does early access to pension funds improve health?

A recent study from Singapore found that early access to pension wealth improves overall health status. The researchers analyzed monthly survey data from 2015 to 2019 and discovered that individuals who accessed their pension funds before age 55 had better self-reported health status afterward.

SourceWiley·JournalEconomic Inquiry·DateJul 8, 2020

A data treasure for gait analysis

A large-scale database of ground reaction force data from over 2,000 patients has been made publicly available for research purposes. The GAITREC database includes information on patients with joint transplants, fractures, and ligament injuries, providing a valuable resource for clinicians and researchers.

SourceSt. Poelten University of Applied Sciences·JournalScientific Data·DateJun 30, 2020
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.

'Building wealth and health network' reduces food insecurity without providing food

The Building Wealth and Health Network program at Drexel University's Center for Hunger-Free Communities reduces food insecurity by promoting healing and financial control through group experiences. Participants are 55% less likely to experience household food insecurity after completing the 16-session program.

SourceDrexel University·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·DateJun 10, 2020

Accounting for nature in economies

Researchers developed a new metric called Gross Ecosystem Product (GEP) to measure the value of nature's contributions to economic activity. GEP accounts for benefits like clean water and climate security, informing investments in securing them and evaluating policy performance.

SourceStanford University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 9, 2020
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Slow easing of lockdowns may be better for global economy

A new modelling study suggests that a cautious approach to easing lockdown restrictions can be better for the global economy in the long run. The study found that shorter, stricter lockdowns minimize supply chain impacts, while gradually easing measures over 12 months may also be less disruptive.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateJun 3, 2020

NUI Galway research highlights the economic costs of workplace bullying

A new NUI Galway study estimates the economic value of lost productivity from workplace bullying in Ireland, totaling 1.7 million workdays lost at a cost of €239 million annually. The research also finds that bullying has a larger effect on absences in private sector organizations.

SourceUniversity of Galway·JournalOccupational Medicine·DateMay 26, 2020

Study quantifies China's chronic health burden for the first time

Researchers found that 62% of participants had physical multimorbidity in 2015, with the condition increasing with age, female gender, and educational level. The study concludes that concerted efforts are needed to reduce health inequalities due to multimorbidity and its adverse economic impact.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalThe Lancet Global Health·DateMay 21, 2020

Nebraska researcher develops contact tracing technology

A Nebraska researcher has developed a smartphone app that uses location and Bluetooth data to track users' physical proximity and notify those potentially exposed to COVID-19. The system provides personalized risk data and insights for individuals making decisions about balancing health and economic risks.

SourceUniversity of Nebraska-Lincoln·DateMay 21, 2020
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.

Rolling 50/30 day cycle of lockdown and relaxation could help manage COVID-19

Researchers propose an alternating cycle of strict lockdown (50 days) followed by eased social distancing (30 days) to reduce COVID-19-related deaths and ICU admissions. This strategy may allow populations and economies to 'breathe' at intervals, making it more sustainable in resource-poor regions.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalEuropean Journal of Epidemiology·DateMay 19, 2020

Forest engineer leads industry team in creating jobs, restoring forest health

A $260,000 award from the US Forest Service supports a two-year project led by NAU professor Han-Sup Han to develop wood products market, invest in rural economies, and increase forest restoration treatments. The goal is to create a center of expertise that can support sustainable forest land management and cluster development.

SourceNorthern Arizona University·DateMay 19, 2020
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.

Older, larger companies benefit from not investing in worker safety, study finds

A recent study found that companies with worker injury claims are more likely to survive than those without claims, particularly among larger and older organizations. This suggests that current regulations may not be enough to protect workers and that future regulations need to reward innovation in workplace safety.

SourceOregon State University·JournalManagement Science·DateMay 13, 2020
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.

Living in a rural environment enhances mental well-being among the elderly

A recent study conducted by researchers at Universitat Pompeu Fabra - Barcelona discovered a direct link between the rurality of an environment and improved mental well-being in older adults. The study found that individuals living in rural areas had significantly better levels of mental well-being compared to those residing in urban o...

SourceUniversitat Pompeu Fabra - Barcelona·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateMay 6, 2020

Safely relaxing social distancing comes down to numbers

A Queensland University of Technology study proposes a simple 'odds-and-evens' approach to safely relaxing COVID-19 lockdown restrictions. By allowing people to leave their homes based on odd or even house numbers, governments can balance competing priorities and create valuable experimental data.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalThe BMJ·DateMay 5, 2020
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.

Higher economic status does not always translate to better heart health

New research suggests that upward income mobility is associated with a trade-off between well-being and cardiometabolic health. Despite improved mental health, individuals who experience upward mobility may fare worse in terms of heart health compared to those with consistent disadvantage or advantage.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateApr 28, 2020

COVID-19 from response to recovery: a Rx for success

A recent study proposes that targeted interventions could minimize socio-economic damage while optimizing medical responses to COVID-19. Full lockdowns may have resulted in worse outcomes compared to partial lockdowns.

SourceSociety for Disaster Medicine and Public Health, Inc.·JournalDisaster Medicine and Public Health Preparedness·DateApr 22, 2020

New study finds EPA mercury analysis is 'seriously flawed'

A new study finds deep flaws in EPA's benefit-cost analysis supporting a proposed rule to roll back Mercury and Air Toxics Standards. The analysis ignores scientific evidence and economic best practice, failing to account for recent science and changes in electricity generation.

SourceResources for the Future (RFF)·JournalScience·DateApr 9, 2020

Periodic physical distancing for COVID-19 control: new modelling study

A new modelling paper from Ontario indicates that dynamic physical distancing measures can reduce COVID-19 transmission while providing periodic psychological and economic relief. The study shows that modulating response measures can prevent ICU overloads without overwhelming the healthcare system.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateApr 8, 2020

Curbing the rising toll of adults with complex care needs

The number of people with clinically complex health and social needs is increasing. Effective solutions require micro- and macro-level innovations that prioritize public and private investments in addressing health inequities.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Nursing·JournalJAMA Health Forum·DateApr 6, 2020
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.

Social policies might not only improve economic well-being, but also health

A comprehensive review of US social policies found that early life and education interventions can reduce smoking by 8%, while income support and health insurance programs show the most promise in improving population health. However, some studies showed no health impact, highlighting the need for careful policymaking.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalMilbank Quarterly·DateMar 19, 2020

Moving beyond 'defensive medicine'

A new study by MIT economists finds that doctors who have immunity from liability lawsuits perform slightly more C-section operations compared to those who are legally liable, about 4% more over a 10-year period. This challenges the common perception that defensive medicine leads to less treatment of patients.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Empirical Legal Studies·DateMar 12, 2020
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.

Individual response to COVID-19 'as important' as government action

Researchers stress that individual actions, such as self-isolation and social distancing, are key in controlling the pandemic. Governments can also take measures like banning large events and ensuring healthcare provision, but these must be balanced with economic considerations.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalThe Lancet·DateMar 6, 2020

The case for economics -- by the numbers

A study by MIT scholars finds economics citations in psychology journals have doubled since 2000, while public health papers cite economics work twice as often as 10 years ago. The proportion of empirical economics papers cited in top journals has risen by 20 percentage points since 1990.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Economic Literature·DateMar 3, 2020

Study finds 'far-reaching' impact from Affordable Care Act

A new study by New York University researchers found that the Affordable Care Act has had a significant impact on reducing financial barriers to healthcare, with 19.3 million people gaining coverage since its implementation in 2010. The law's market reforms have also led to measurable gains in the financial well-being of poor Americans.

SourceNew York University·JournalHealth Affairs·DateMar 2, 2020

The GDP fudge: China edition

A study found that Chinese firms in provinces with lower GDP growth are more likely to engage in earnings management to prop up provincial GDP figures. This leads to a range of negative consequences for the firms, including high bad debt expenses, inventory write-offs, and asset impairment losses.

SourceSingapore Management University·DateMar 2, 2020
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Study: The opioid crisis may be far worse than we thought

New research reveals that opioid-related deaths may be 28% higher than reported due to incomplete death records. The study found that almost 72% of unclassified drug overdoses involved prescription opioids, heroin, or fentanyl.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalAddiction·DateFeb 27, 2020