A study by Brown University and Silent Spring Institute found that inexpensive DIY air filters called Corsi-Rosenthal boxes can significantly decrease indoor air concentrations of PFAS and phthalates. The boxes, made from MERV-13 filters, duct tape, a fan, and cardboard, reduced PFAS levels by 40% to 60% and phthalates by 30% to 60%.
SourceBrown University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·TypeObservational study·DateDec 23, 2022
A large study of over 20,600 children found that living in higher-opportunity neighborhoods at birth was associated with a lower average body mass index trajectory and a lower risk of obesity from childhood to adolescence. Initiatives targeting neighborhood environments may help prevent excess weight in children.
SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateDec 22, 2022
A new study found that living in neighborhoods with higher opportunity or lower vulnerability can lead to lower mean BMI trajectory and lower risk of obesity in children. The study suggests that investing in neighborhood environments could help mitigate future chronic disease risk, particularly for marginalized communities.
SourceHarvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateDec 22, 2022
A UC Riverside study found that farmworkers in the Eastern Coachella Valley lack information and means to advocate for better public health due to language barriers, job insecurity, and limited access to healthcare. The study highlights disproportionate respiratory illness affecting Latinx children living near the Salton Sea.
SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·TypeSurvey·DateDec 22, 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.
New research reveals that California nursing homes exposed to wildfire risks have poorer compliance with emergency preparedness standards. The study found that 83.9% of these facilities had at least one deficiency compared to 76.9% of unexposed ones.
SourceWiley·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateDec 21, 2022
The Inflation Reduction Act offers significant benefits for public health through its tax credits and financial incentives. The law aims to reduce the adverse health effects of climate change by targeting greenhouse gases, conventional air pollutants, and carcinogenic chemical contaminants. By providing a more politically feasible appr...
SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 21, 2022
Composite wastewater samples taken over 24 hours reveal a more accurate representation of antibiotic-resistant genes, with levels 10 times higher than 'snapshots'. Chlorination can negatively impact water quality, highlighting the need for improved treatment protocols.
SourceRice University·JournalACS ES&T Water·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 19, 2022
A study from the University of California, Davis' One Health Institute found that canine echinococcosis increased to 6.9% in Tierra del Fuego's sheep farms after the government cancelled a deworming program in 2004. Reestablishing the program could help protect people and animals from hydatid disease.
SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalZoonoses and Public Health·DateDec 19, 2022
A large-scale study of mothers reveals those who experienced greatest pandemic-related change are more susceptible to traumatic stress symptoms. Mothers with higher incomes and education were found to be in the high-change group, while those with lower socioeconomic status reported fewer disruptions.
SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 16, 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.
A recent study published in Scientific Reports found ultrafine magnetic iron oxide particles in London Underground air pollution, with average diameter of 10 nanometres. The authors propose that improved air pollution monitoring and efforts to reduce pollution levels could help mitigate health risks associated with exposure to these pa...
SourceScientific Reports·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 15, 2022
A new study finds that inadequate pollination leads to a 3-5% loss of fruit, vegetable, and nut production, resulting in 427,000 excess deaths annually from lost healthy food consumption. The health burden is greater in middle- and higher-income countries with high rates of non-communicable diseases.
SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 14, 2022
Researchers confirmed smoking and obesity increase COVID-19 severity, with ACE2 mediating detrimental effects. Lower socioeconomic position also increases COVID-19 risk, highlighting social inequalities.
SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalJournal of Medical Virology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 14, 2022
A new study finds higher arsenic and uranium concentrations in public drinking water linked to communities with higher proportions of Hispanic/Latino and American Indian residents. The findings highlight inequalities in public water contaminant exposures affecting regions with more residents from communities of color.
SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 14, 2022
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.
AORN Journal researcher Danielle Quintana defines surgical conscience as the moral obligation to perform duties regardless of cost or consequence. Her conceptual model illustrates the importance of consistent, accurate, and safe practice in the perioperative environment.
SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalAORN Journal·DateDec 13, 2022
MIT researchers have identified molecules found in mucus that can block cholera infection by interfering with the genes that cause the microbe to switch into a harmful state. The protective molecules, known as glycans, prevent Vibrio cholerae from producing the toxin that usually leads to severe diarrhea.
SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalThe EMBO Journal·DateDec 12, 2022
A new study finds that areas with high levels of arsenic contamination in drinking water have a higher prevalence of antibiotic-resistant Escherichia coli in both water and child stool samples. The study highlights the potential for environmental drivers like arsenic to contribute to antimicrobial resistance.
SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·TypeObservational study·DateDec 8, 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.
A study found that children born in November-December had an 80% higher risk of being prescribed ADHD medication compared to those born in January-February. The researcher suggests that the youngest children are being overmedicated due to their age, rather than any inherent difference in maturity.
SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalPEDIATRICS·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 7, 2022
Researchers found that rusty center pivots indicate a lack of nitrate in the groundwater they feed. In fact, most wells supplying full-rust and part-rust pivots had nitrate concentrations below the EPA's safety threshold. However, some part-rust pivots showed higher nitrate levels, highlighting the need for further investigation.
SourceUniversity of Nebraska-Lincoln·JournalACS ES&T Water·DateDec 7, 2022
Researchers at Rutgers University simulated climate change's impact on allergenic pollens, finding significant increases in airborne pollen loads by 2050. The study predicts earlier start times and longer durations for pollen seasons across the US, with notable regional shifts.
SourceRutgers University·JournalFrontiers in Allergy·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 6, 2022
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
A new portable device can detect the low-intensity light emission from healthy plants, allowing researchers to measure their health and sustainability. This technology can help assess the impact of CO2 emissions, greenhouse gases, and extreme weather events on plant stress and inform strategies for sustainable agriculture.
SourceYork University·JournalBiosensors·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 6, 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.
West Virginia University researchers, Ember Morrissey and Kinsey Reed, are working with private farms to diversify forage species and improve soil health. The project aims to increase economic gains for farmers while reducing carbon dioxide emissions.
Researchers at KAUST have discovered a key protein that acts as a master switch for plant immunity, suggesting a simpler way to develop more resilient crops. The protein, OXI1, triggers the production of immune-promoting molecules, but its overactivity can harm plants.
SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNew Phytologist·DateDec 5, 2022
A new ISGlobal study found that full adherence to the 3-30-300 green space rule was associated with improved mental health and fewer visits to a psychologist. However, only 4.7% of respondents met all three criteria, highlighting a need for more green spaces in urban areas.
SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalEnvironmental Research·TypeObservational study·DateDec 5, 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.
A new MIT study suggests that prioritizing polluting power plants in times of wind energy generation could quadruple the health benefits associated with wind power, resulting in $8.4 billion in nationwide health benefits. However, this approach would not address existing disparities in air pollution exposure among low-income and minori...
SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 2, 2022
Researchers designed a wearable smart device for cows that captures kinetic energy from movement and uses it to power smart ranch technology. The device can be powered by even small movements, such as neck swaying or walking, and stores energy in a lithium battery.
SourceCell Press·JournaliScience·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 1, 2022
Research highlights the need for high-quality studies on tropical cyclones in low- and middle-income countries to understand long-term consequences. The public health impact extends beyond injuries and cardiovascular diseases, affecting neuropsychiatric conditions and infectious diseases.
SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateNov 30, 2022
New research reveals mangroves can withstand heavy metal contamination without adverse health impacts. Grey mangroves were found to tolerate high lead and zinc levels in contaminated sediment, highlighting their role in stabilising polluted regions.
SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalScience of The Total Environment·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 28, 2022
A new study from the University of Cincinnati examined workplace stress during the COVID-19 pandemic, revealing that increased workload and perception of COVID-19 exposure were major stressors. The research aimed to provide insights for organizations to reduce workplace stress and improve worker mental health.
SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalAnnals of Work Exposures and Health·TypeSurvey·DateNov 28, 2022
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.
Researchers discovered how enzymes metabolize chiral PCBs, leading to neurodevelopmental issues. The study found that mirror-image isomers are metabolized differently, causing selective toxicity in humans and animals.
SourceKobe University·JournalChemosphere·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 22, 2022
Researchers have developed a unique resource for understanding the impact of early life environmental exposures on health. The study, which analyzed data from 1,301 mother-child pairs, identified associations between 92 in pregnancy and 116 in childhood with molecular profiles at different levels.
SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateNov 21, 2022
Researchers demonstrate that tetraplegic users can operate mind-controlled wheelchairs in a cluttered environment after training, with improvements in accuracy and brain activity patterns. The study highlights the importance of long-term training and neuroplastic reorganization for successful brain-machine interface control.
SourceCell Press·JournaliScience·TypeObservational study·DateNov 18, 2022
A new analysis by researchers at Duke University proposes a four-step science-based framework to overcome barriers and enhance the success of early warning systems. The framework involves understanding potential barriers, engaging key stakeholders, identifying promising strategies to overcome barriers, and measuring outcomes.
SourceDuke University·JournalThe Lancet Planetary Health·TypeCase study·DateNov 16, 2022
A new study by MIT researchers finds that maintaining an indoor relative humidity between 40 and 60 percent is associated with relatively lower rates of COVID-19 infections and deaths. Indoor conditions outside this range are linked to worse COVID-19 outcomes.
SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·DateNov 15, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.
A recent meta-analysis published in Human Reproduction Update reveals a significant worldwide decline in sperm counts of over 50% in the past 46 years. The study also shows an accelerated post-2000 decline in sperm counts globally.
SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalHuman Reproduction Update·TypeMeta-analysis·DateNov 15, 2022
Researchers found that higher levels of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in pregnant women were associated with increased anxiety scores in their children at age 12. The study suggests that exposure to flame retardants during early brain development may be a risk factor for developing anxiety symptoms in early adolescence.
SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalDepression·TypeObservational study·DateNov 15, 2022
A new study found that healthier plant-based dietary patterns had lower cardiovascular disease risk and lower greenhouse gas emissions compared to less healthy plant-based diets. Diets high in refined grains, sugary drinks, and processed meat required more cropland, fertilizer, and irrigation water.
SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalThe Lancet Planetary Health·TypeObservational study·DateNov 10, 2022
A recent study suggests that even low levels of fine particulate matter can cause significant mortality risk, contributing to 1.5 million extra deaths globally each year. The research used Canadian data to inform global estimates and highlights the need for improved air quality guidelines.
SourceMcGill University·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 9, 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.
A new study by Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health found that buildings renovated with healthier furnishings had significantly lower levels of PFAS than those with conventional furnishings. The researchers analyzed dust in indoor spaces and found that organic fluorine levels were also lower in the healthier spaces.
SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateNov 7, 2022
A recent study analyzing Amazon Rainforest fires from 2003-2020 reveals that most fires are caused by uncontrolled human use of fire for agriculture and deforestation. The study found that Brazil accounted for an average of 73% of detected fires, with pasturelands and natural grasslands being the main burned areas.
SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalGlobal Ecology and Biogeography·DateNov 4, 2022
A study published in The Lancet Public Health found a clear association between tiny air pollution particles and sudden cardiac arrests in Singapore. Researchers identified a short-term effect, with reduced risk of cardiac arrests after exposure to lower PM2.5 concentrations.
SourceDuke-NUS Medical School·JournalThe Lancet Public Health·TypeObservational study·DateNov 4, 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.
Researchers developed a 3D organoid model that mimics human heart development, revealing how low levels of cadmium can block cardiomyocyte formation and induce heart abnormalities. The study supports decades of toxicology research on environmental exposures contributing to human diseases.
SourceNIH/National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 2, 2022
A new metric estimates cumulative exposure to PFAS chemicals, enabling comparisons across studies and applications. The calculator takes into account patterns of exposure to multiple chemicals, providing a robust tool for biomonitoring and disease assessment.
SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateNov 2, 2022
A CSU study found that racially segregated communities are exposed to a more concentrated form of air pollution, including toxic metals like lead and cadmium. This disparity is linked to systemic racial injustices and targeted emissions reductions can help reduce exposure.
SourceColorado State University·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 1, 2022
A new book by Aston University financial regulation expert Dr Daniel Cash proposes a temporary change to the way credit ratings are decided to help poorer countries avoid downgraded ratings and borrow money for vital improvements like healthcare and infrastructure.
Researchers analyzed 30 years of cardiovascular mortality data from the US and UK, finding that lead exposure contributes more to CVD death risks in the US. The study also revealed a steady decline in cardiovascular deaths associated with all environmental factors in both countries.
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.
A recent study reviewed 3299 studies and found no standard tools for measuring the carbon footprint of digital health interventions globally. The researchers emphasize the need for end-to-end systems-based environmental assessments to encourage greener digital healthcare solutions.
SourceMonash University·JournalJournal of the American Medical Informatics Association·TypeSystematic review·DateOct 31, 2022
A study found that living in a food desert increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, and early death for people with PAD. People with PAD living in food deserts were 17% more likely to experience a major cardiac event compared to those with better nutrition access.
Researchers at HKU have developed a novel technique to measure the rotational and translational motion of cell markers with high precision. This breakthrough technology uses single nitrogen-vacancy centers in nanodiamonds to tackle the long-standing challenge in mechanobiology research.
SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalNano Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 27, 2022
A study from Washington University in St. Louis found that amines used in herbicide formulations volatilize, releasing toxic particles into the atmosphere and affecting climate chemistry. The research highlights the importance of understanding amines' role in atmospheric pollution.
SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 27, 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.
The Annenberg Science and Public Health Knowledge Monitor assesses public knowledge on climate, maternal health, vaccination, and more. The quarterly survey reports aim to highlight strengths and weaknesses in public knowledge and inform public health strategies.
SourceAnnenberg Public Policy Center of the University of Pennsylvania·TypeSurvey·DateOct 27, 2022
A recent study published in Science of The Total Environment found that many household wells in Nevada are contaminated with heavy metals such as arsenic, which can cause adverse health effects. The study suggests that frequent testing and improved treatment systems are necessary to ensure safe drinking water for rural communities.
SourceDesert Research Institute·JournalScience of The Total Environment·TypeObservational study·DateOct 26, 2022
The American College of Physicians (ACP) releases a position paper emphasizing the need for policy actions to address climate change, reduce hazardous substance exposure, and promote environmental justice. ACP calls for immediate action to limit global temperature rise and comprehensive efforts to achieve environmental justice.
SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateOct 24, 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.
A pooled data analysis found that workplace exposure to gases, fumes, and aromatic solvents is associated with a decline in lung capacity. Regular check-ups are recommended for workers in these environments to prevent respiratory illness.
SourceBMJ Group·JournalOccupational and Environmental Medicine·TypeMeta-analysis·DateOct 24, 2022
The researchers developed a conformable multimodal sensor face mask (cMaSK) with 17 sensors around the edge of the mask that measure capacitance, temperature, humidity, air pressure, and other parameters. The study found that mask fit was significantly worse for women than men due to gender-related differences in face shape and size.
SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Electronics·DateOct 20, 2022
A study by researchers at ICES, Lawson Health Research Institute, and Western University found that virtual care during the pandemic led to significant environmental and patient cost savings. Virtual visits represented approximately 0.2% of total annual carbon dioxide emissions in Ontario and estimated $63 million in patient cost savings.
SourceInstitute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeObservational study·DateOct 20, 2022
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.
Researchers highlight climate-sensitive dermatological manifestations initiated or exacerbated by floods, wildfires, and extreme heat events. These events disproportionately affect marginalized populations, exacerbating existing health disparities.
SourceElsevier·JournalThe Journal of Climate Change and Health·TypeLiterature review·DateOct 20, 2022
Over 250 health journals globally publish an editorial urging wealthy nations to provide climate justice for Africa, citing severe flooding, increased infectious diseases, and economic devastation. The authors argue that achieving the $100bn climate finance target is now 'globally critical' to forestall systemic risks.
SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateOct 18, 2022
The editorial urges wealthy nations to step up support for Africa and vulnerable countries in addressing past, present, and future impacts of climate change. The climate crisis has destroyed a fifth of the GDP of the most vulnerable countries.
A new NIH study found that frequent use of hair straightening products was associated with a higher risk of uterine cancer, particularly among Black women. The researchers estimated that women who used these products frequently were more than twice as likely to develop uterine cancer compared to those who did not use them.
SourceNIH/National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateOct 17, 2022
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.