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The changing occupation landscape: How automation affects workers health and mortality

A study found that individuals in occupations with high routine intensity are at risk of becoming unemployed, experiencing higher disability rates, and facing increased mortality. The research highlights the need for governments to assess opportunities for retraining and provide economic support to affected workers.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalOccupational and Environmental Medicine·DateSep 28, 2021
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.

Parental income has long-term consequences for children’s health

A University of Illinois study found that parental income has a lasting impact on children's health, with lower socioeconomic status linked to increased risk of obesity and related conditions. Permanent income is associated with parents' general socioeconomic conditions, while transitory peaks during adolescence can promote better health.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalSocial Science & Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 27, 2021

Stronger regulations needed on common obesity-promoting chemicals

A systematic review presents evidence that environmental obesogens, such as hormone-disrupting chemicals, play a significant role in childhood and adult obesity. Dr. Leonardo Trasande recommends simple policies to reduce exposure and suggests economic benefits of limiting public exposure.

SourceEuropean Society for Paediatric Endocrinology·JournalHormone Research in Paediatrics·TypeSystematic review·DateSep 24, 2021
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Could a novel light therapy help people with Alzheimer's?

Researchers at Mount Sinai Hospital are testing a novel light therapy to slow Alzheimer's debilitating effects, aiming to improve both cognition and sleep. The treatment involves flashing pulses of light designed to enhance electrical brain waves and reset the sleep-wake cycle.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·DateSep 22, 2021

NTU Singapore scientists develop ‘optimal strategies’ computer model that could significantly reduce future COVID-19 infections and deaths

A team of NTU Singapore scientists developed a predictive computer model called NSGA-II, which proposed strategies to reduce COVID-19 infections and deaths by an average of 72%. The model recommended timely and country-specific advice on interventions such as home quarantines and social distancing measures.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalSustainable Cities and Society·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 15, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Air pollution exposure during pregnancy has long-term impact on children’s health, development

Research reveals that air pollution exposure during pregnancy can have a lasting impact on children's health and development. Studies show a link between prenatal exposure to fine and ultrafine particulate matter and adverse outcomes such as low birth weight, asthma, cognitive and behavioral issues, obesity, and diabetes.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalEnvironmental Health and Preventive Medicine·TypeNews article·DateSep 13, 2021

White blood cells that can help destroy malignant tumors

Eosinophils, a type of white blood cell, play a crucial role in destroying malignant tumors by recruiting T-cells and releasing destructive proteins. The study, published in Cancer Research, reveals that eosinophils combat cancer effectively but require the help of T-cells to do so.

SourceTel-Aviv University·JournalCancer Research·DateSep 13, 2021

Office air quality may affect employees’ cognition, productivity

A one-year study found that increased concentrations of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and lower ventilation rates were associated with slower response times and reduced accuracy on cognitive tests, affecting employees' productivity.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·TypeObservational study·DateSep 9, 2021
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.

Boom in social stress may contribute to population decline

A University of Massachusetts Amherst scientist suggests that rising social stress may contribute to the projected global population decline starting in 2064. Stress from social media and other social interactions may be leading to changes in reproductive behavior and physiology, resulting in decreased reproduction rates.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalEndocrinology·TypeLiterature review·DateSep 7, 2021

Study explores why asthma worsens at night

Researchers investigate how the internal circadian clock affects asthma severity. The study found that people with worse asthma experience greater drops in pulmonary function at night, and exhibit more symptoms-driven bronchodilator use during nighttime hours. This understanding could lead to new treatments for asthma.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 6, 2021
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.

Panic buying is driven by fear, perceived lack of supplies and social pressure, finds NTU Singapore study

A recent NTU Singapore study reveals that individuals experiencing fear, social pressure, and perceived scarcity are more likely to engage in panic buying. The study's findings highlight the importance of addressing the psychological and social components of panic buying to mitigate its detrimental impact on societies.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalInternational Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction·TypeMeta-analysis·DateSep 6, 2021

The Lancet journals: "Emergency action on climate and nature crisis cannot wait for the pandemic”, says unprecedented joint editorial from health journals

Health professionals call for world leaders to take emergency action to transform societies and limit climate change, restore biodiversity, and protect health. The editorial urges governments to intervene with short-term plans to reduce emissions, conserve nature, and support low-income countries.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateSep 5, 2021

Decades after toxic exposure, 9/11 first responders may still lower their risk of lung injury

A new study from NYU Langone Health found that losing weight and managing excess body fat can significantly reduce the risk of lung disease in firefighters exposed to toxic substances on 9/11. The study analyzed 20 years of data from over 5,700 first responders and identified five key factors that predict lung disease.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateSep 2, 2021
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.

Researcher seeks better picture of Lyme disease cases in Texas

Researchers used new approaches to track Lyme disease in Texas, finding an overlap between tick-bite locations and human cases. The study suggests that tick-bite location may serve as an indicator for human disease risk in nonendemic areas.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalHealthcare·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 2, 2021

Exposure to persistent environmental toxins in everyday products may increase diabetes risk in Latina adolescents

A new USC study found a link between 'forever chemicals' and changes in glucose metabolism in Latina girls, potentially increasing their risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Researchers measured the impact of PFAS on glucose metabolism over time among adolescents and young adults.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·TypeObservational study·DateSep 1, 2021
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.

Study finds body mass index for children greatest in Midwest, least in West

A study of over 14,000 children found Midwestern kids have the highest body mass index (BMI) levels, while Western kids have the lowest. The research suggests regional influences may play a role in childhood obesity, with factors such as environmental exposures and mother's education also contributing to BMI.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalObesity·TypeObservational study·DateSep 1, 2021

Salinas Valley teens find green cleaning is worth the hype

A study by UC Berkeley researchers and Salinas Valley teens found that switching to green cleaning products can reduce users' exposure to up to 17 different harmful chemicals. The study, led by co-author Jessica Cabrera, showed an 86% decrease in chloroform exposure after making the switch.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 1, 2021

We’re breathing PFAS: Study finds harmful forever chemicals in indoor air

A new study has detected high levels of PFAS chemicals in indoor air, particularly in carpets and other products treated with the forever chemicals. The research suggests that children may be exposed to these harmful substances through inhalation, highlighting the need for reduced use of PFAS in products.

SourceGreen Science Policy Institute·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·DateAug 31, 2021
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.

Researchers explore how people respond to wildfire smoke

Researchers studied Northern California residents' responses to wildfire smoke, finding that social norms and social support significantly influence protective health actions. The study aims to promote safer behavior by understanding how people interact with information and make decisions during smoke events.

SourceStanford University·JournalClimate Risk Management·TypeCase study·DateAug 30, 2021

Environmental pollution may contribute to racial/ethnic disparities In Alzheimer’s disease risk, says new study

A recent study found that fine particle pollution, specifically PM2.5, may contribute to the disproportionate number of African American women affected by dementia. Despite adjusting for various risk factors, Black women still had double the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease compared to white women.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalThe Journals of Gerontology Series A·TypeObservational study·DateAug 26, 2021

Diverse DNA signatures linked to heart disease

Researchers identified distinct epigenetic patterns associated with heart disease in diverse populations, offering potential early warning signs. The study analyzed genome data from four cohorts and found unique methylation points linked to coronary heart disease.

SourceTexas Biomedical Research Institute·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateAug 25, 2021
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.

Exposure to tobacco smoke in early life is associated with accelerated biological ageing

A new study finds that early-life exposure to tobacco smoke is associated with accelerated biological ageing in children. The analysis of over 1,000 children in six European countries revealed that maternal tobacco smoke during pregnancy and indoor exposure to black carbon are linked to an acceleration in epigenetic ageing.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalEnvironment International·DateAug 25, 2021

How firefighters deal with heat stress and fatigue

A new study asked over 470 firefighters about their recovery methods in extreme heat, finding that simple strategies like finding shade and drinking water are often used. The research suggests potential for better cooling and recovery protocols to improve firefighter safety and performance.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalApplied Ergonomics·TypeSurvey·DateAug 24, 2021

Efficient buildings could save thousands of lives in US every year

A new study suggests that improved building energy efficiency can prevent up to 5,100 yearly premature deaths and up to 2,900 lives in the US. The 'optimistic' scenario envisions a 50% increase in appliance efficiency and 60-90% increase in building shell efficiency by 2050.

SourceYale University·JournalScience Advances·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 20, 2021
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.

Dieting: Villain or scapegoat?

Research suggests that dieting is a consequence of an unhealthy food environment, rather than the cause of weight loss problems. Experts recommend refocusing concerns on changing the food environment to curb dieting and related issues.

SourceDrexel University·JournalPhysiology & Behavior·DateAug 17, 2021

Widowers more likely to be diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer

A recent study published in European Journal of Epidemiology reveals that widowers are at a higher risk of being diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer. The research highlights the importance of social environment and lifestyle factors in the development of the disease.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·JournalEuropean Journal of Epidemiology·TypeMeta-analysis·DateAug 12, 2021
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.

Examining correlation between occupational noise, heart disease

A large cross-sectional study in Canada found no association between loud noise exposure and changes in biomarkers for cardiovascular disease or outcomes. However, there were associations found between noise and several biomarkers, but these remained statistically insignificant after adjusting for important variables.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalThe Journal of the Acoustical Society of America·DateAug 10, 2021

Ancient herbal medicine may offer relief to veterans with Gulf War Illness

A study from the University of South Carolina's Environmental Health & Disease Laboratory found that andrographolide successfully restored bacteriomes and viromes, increasing beneficial bacteria and decreasing harmful bacteria. The treatment also decreased gut inflammation and neuroinflammation in veterans with Gulf War Illness.

SourceUniversity of South Carolina·JournalBrain Sciences·DateAug 5, 2021

Fine particulate air pollution associated with higher risk of dementia

Researchers from the University of Washington identified a strong link between fine particulate air pollution and an increased risk of dementia. A 1 microgram per cubic meter difference in PM2.5 pollution was associated with a 16% greater incidence of dementia, highlighting the potential neurodegenerative effects of air pollution.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 4, 2021
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 sleep study’s eye-opening findings

A recent study conducted by MIT economists found that increasing nighttime sleep had no positive effects on work productivity, earnings, or overall sense of well-being among low-income workers in Chennai, India. However, short daytime naps did show significant improvements in these areas.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalThe Quarterly Journal of Economics·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJul 29, 2021

Beating the heatstroke

A team of scientists used hybrid machine learning methods to predict the incidence of heatstroke in Japanese cities. They achieved a high level of accuracy using publicly available information such as demographics and weather forecasts.

SourceNational Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateJul 28, 2021

Are laundry and dish pods biodegradable? Not exactly, ASU study shows

A recent ASU study reveals that up to 75% of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) used in laundry and dish pods goes untreated in US wastewater treatment plants, amounting to around 8,000 tons released annually. This raises concerns about the environmental impact of these products, as PVA can sequester heavy metals and alter gas exchanges.

SourceArizona State University·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·TypeLiterature review·DateJul 27, 2021
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.

Using silicone wristbands to measure air quality

A study by Texas A&M researchers found that silicone wristbands can be used as passive samplers to measure exposure to harmful chemicals during pregnancy. The wristbands yielded similar results to traditional testing methods, suggesting they could be a useful tool in studies of semi-volatile pollutants.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalJournal of Exposure Science & Environmental Epidemiology·DateJul 23, 2021

The environmental toll of disposable masks

A new MIT study estimates that disposable N95 masks generate up to 84 million kilograms of waste during the first six months of a pandemic, equivalent to 252 Boeing 747 airplanes. Reusable silicone masks could reduce this waste by 80-90%.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateJul 20, 2021

Firefighters found to have persistent lung damage from Fort McMurray wildfire

A University of Alberta research team found that firefighters dealing with the massive 2016 Fort McMurray wildfire suffered from long-term lung damage, including increased bronchial reactivity and thickening. The risk of developing asthma was more than doubled compared to the general population.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalJournal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine·DateJul 19, 2021

Study shows strong association between perceived risk, availability and past-year cannabis use

A recent study at Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health found that combined perceptions of the risk and availability of cannabis influence the risk of cannabis use more than perceived risk and perceived availability alone. Individuals who perceived cannabis as both low-risk and available were 22 times more likely to have ...

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalDrug and Alcohol Dependence·DateJul 15, 2021
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.

Providing clean, safe and private toilet, menstrual hygiene management for the homeless: An audit

A new study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that public toilets in Manhattan do not meet the needs of women experiencing homelessness, with limited access to resources and safety issues. The research highlights the need for improved menstrual hygiene management and accessibility in public facilities.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 23, 2021

10 keys to integrating health into urban and transport planning

The Barcelona Institute for Global Health has identified 10 key principles for integrating health components into urban design, aiming to reduce premature mortality. The study provides a checklist for urban planners to incorporate public health into their work, promoting active and public transport, green spaces, and mixed land use.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalInternational Journal of Hygiene and Environmental Health·DateJun 23, 2021

Minority groups in the US experience cognitive issues earlier in life

A recent study found that minority groups in the US are more likely to experience cognitive issues earlier in life. The study analyzed data from over 179,000 adults and found that Black and Hispanic individuals were more likely to self-report memory loss and cognitive decline compared to white individuals.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Public Health·DateJun 23, 2021

Robot-assisted surgery: Putting the reality in virtual reality

A robot system with a digital twin uses intra-operative ultrasound to guide cardiac surgeons, improving their view of the patient without radiation exposure. The platform can assist less experienced operators and aid in pre-planning and real-time control.

SourceChinese Association of Automation·JournalIEEE/CAA Journal of Automatica Sinica·DateJun 19, 2021
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.

New in the Hastings Center Report, May-June 2021

Environmental injustices, such as toxic landfills and chemical plants, are often located in predominantly Black, Latinx, and Indigenous neighborhoods, threatening the health of these populations. The Hastings Center Report highlights the need for bioethics to consider environmental injustice in its principles of justice.

SourceThe Hastings Center·JournalHastings Center Report·DateJun 17, 2021