Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Taking higher-than-recommended doses of vitamin D for five years reduced the risk of atrial fibrillation

A five-year study found that taking higher-than-recommended doses of vitamin D reduced the risk of atrial fibrillation by 27-32% in older men and women. The Finnish Vitamin D Trial involved 2,495 participants who received either a placebo or vitamin D supplementation, with lower risks observed in those taking higher doses.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalAmerican Heart Journal·DateJun 27, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Multiple sclerosis more prevalent in Black Americans than previously thought

A new study published in JAMA Neurology suggests that multiple sclerosis is more prevalent in Black Americans than once thought, with the disease also affecting Northern regions of the US. The study's findings have significant implications for public policy and resource allocation towards historically under-represented populations.

SourceUniversity of Maryland School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Neurology·TypeObservational study·DateJun 2, 2023

New study defines analytical performance specifications for 24,25-dihydroxyvitamin D examinations

A new study has defined analytical performance specifications for 24,25-dihydroxyvitamin D examinations, which is essential for developing accurate methods to detect this metabolite. The findings show that the variation of 24,25(OH)2D concentration over time was significantly associated with 25(OH)D concentrations and body mass index.

SourceInternational Osteoporosis Foundation·JournalClinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (CCLM)·DateMay 23, 2023

Low levels of vitamin D linked to long COVID

Research finds that low vitamin D levels are associated with an increased risk of developing long COVID syndrome in patients who have previously contracted COVID-19. The study suggests that individuals with low vitamin D levels should have their levels checked after recovering from COVID-19.

SourceEuropean Society of Endocrinology·DateMay 13, 2023

Reduced cancer mortality with daily vitamin D intake

A systematic review of 14 high-quality studies found that daily vitamin D3 supplementation was associated with a 12% reduction in cancer mortality. Vitamin D deficiency is widespread, particularly among cancer patients, and regular intake at low doses may help prevent cancer deaths.

SourceGerman Cancer Research Center (Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, DKFZ)·JournalAgeing Research Reviews·DateMay 9, 2023
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.

Does weight loss surgery harm adolescents’ bones?

A study found that sleeve gastrectomy decreases bone mineral density and strength in adolescents and young adults. Participants who underwent weight loss surgery lost significant amounts of weight and experienced reductions in abdominal fat tissue and muscle mass.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Bone and Mineral Research·DateApr 19, 2023

Diet high in fruit and vegetables linked to lower miscarriage risk

A diet high in fruit and vegetables is associated with a lower miscarriage risk, with significant reductions seen for each food group. The meta-analysis of 20 studies found that consuming high amounts of fruit may reduce the risk by up to 61%, while high vegetable intake is linked to a 41% reduction.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalFertility and Sterility·TypeMeta-analysis·DateApr 19, 2023

Study: vitamin D may play a role in prostate cancer disparities

A study published in Cancer Research Communications found that vitamin D receptor genetic differences in African American men may make them more vulnerable to prostate cancer. The researchers suggest that revised nutritional guidelines for vitamin D intake may be necessary to address these disparities.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalCancer Research Communications·DateApr 18, 2023
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.

Cochrane Review finds that vitamin D does not reduce risk of asthma attacks

An updated Cochrane review found no effect of vitamin D supplements on reducing the risk of asthma attacks or improving control of asthma symptoms in children and adults. The review analyzed data from 20 randomized controlled trials involving over 2,200 people with mild to moderate asthma.

SourceCochrane·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·TypeSystematic review·DateFeb 5, 2023

Vitamin D supplementation is associated with a reduced risk of suicide attempts in a large cohort of U.S. veterans, especially in Black veterans and those with pre-existing low vitamin D

A large cohort study found that vitamin D supplementation is associated with a reduced risk of suicide attempts among US veterans. The study highlights the importance of vitamin D levels and supplementation in preventing suicidal behaviors, particularly among Black veterans and those with pre-existing low vitamin D.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 1, 2023

80-year-old medical mystery that caused baby deaths solved

Researchers have solved an 80-year-old medical mystery that causes kidney damage in children and can be fatal in babies. They discovered a gene mutation is the primary cause, but found that around 10% of patients without the mutation still experience symptoms.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalJournal of Bone and Mineral Research·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 25, 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.

Study shows impact of vitamin D, thyroid hormones on child development

A retrospective study found associations between vitamin D levels and fine motor development delays, as well as thyroid hormones with cognitive development. Certain metals were also linked to language, cognitive, or motor skill development.

SourceMarshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine·JournalBiomedicine & Pharmacotherapy·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJan 24, 2023

Study suggests vitamin D benefits and metabolism may depend on body weight

Researchers analyzed data from the VITAL trial and found that vitamin D supplementation increased biomarkers associated with vitamin D metabolism in people, regardless of their weight. However, these increases were significantly smaller in people with elevated BMIs, suggesting a blunted response to supplementation.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJournal of the American Medical Association·TypeObservational study·DateJan 17, 2023

Fewer cases of melanoma among people taking vitamin D supplements

Regular use of vitamin D supplements was associated with a significantly reduced risk of melanoma and better skin cancer classification compared to non-users. However, the study did not find a significant association between vitamin D use and other skin changes or severity of photoaging.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalMelanoma Research·DateJan 9, 2023

More than two billion are infected with this disease; Vitamin D can help

Researchers found that vitamin D strengthens immune cells' ability to fight tuberculosis by producing cathelicidin toxin. Vitamin D treatment can prevent and treat the disease, particularly in populations exposed to high risk of infection. However, supplements do not protect against infection with tuberculosis.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalFrontiers in Immunology·TypeCase study·DateJan 6, 2023

Study finds surprising risks for COVID-19 infection

Researchers identified several characteristics increasing risk of infection, while others decreased it. Strict adherence to mask-wearing and vitamin D consumption provided significant protection against COVID-19.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalBiology Methods and Protocols·TypeObservational study·DateDec 15, 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.

Vitamin D deficiency increases risk of losing muscle strength by 78%

Researchers found that vitamin D deficiency increases the risk of dynapenia, an age-associated loss of muscle strength, by 70-78%. Vitamin D supplementation was shown to reduce this risk. The study analyzed data from over 3,000 individuals aged 50 and over, highlighting the importance of vitamin D for maintaining muscle strength.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalCalcified Tissue International·DateDec 13, 2022

Some benefits, potential risks with alternative medicines for heart failure

A new American Heart Association scientific statement highlights the potential benefits and risks of complementary and alternative therapies for heart failure. The statement advises healthcare professionals to discuss CAM use with patients, monitor medication interactions, and consider pharmacists' consultations.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalCirculation·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.

Researchers find that brains with more vitamin D function better

A study published by Tufts University has found a link between higher levels of vitamin D in brain tissue and improved cognitive function in adults. The research, which analyzed brain tissue from over 200 participants, suggests that vitamin D may play a role in protecting the aging brain against diseases such as Alzheimer's.

SourceTufts University·JournalAlzheimer s & Dementia·DateDec 7, 2022

Vitamin D fails to reduce statin-associated muscle pain

A new study from Northwestern University found that vitamin D supplements do not significantly reduce statin-associated muscle symptoms, contradicting previous non-randomized studies. The trial involved 2,083 participants and was the first placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trial to examine this effect.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateNov 23, 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.

Vitamin D deficiency linked to premature death

A new study from the University of South Australia found that severe vitamin D deficiency is associated with a higher risk of mortality. The research evaluated 307,601 records from the UK Biobank and found that individuals with low vitamin D levels had a significantly decreased risk of death over a 14-year follow-up period.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 25, 2022

ACP says policies needed to improve environmental health

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

Vitamin D3 and omega-3 fatty acids not helpful in reducing risk of frailty

Researchers analyzed data from over 25,000 US adults in a clinical trial and found that vitamin D3 and omega-3 fatty acid supplementation had no effect on frailty scores. Healthy lifestyle habits such as regular exercise and the Mediterranean diet are recommended for preventing frailty instead.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 13, 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.

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.

Vitamin D supplementation seems to alleviate depressive symptoms in adults

A large meta-analysis suggests that vitamin D supplementation may alleviate depressive symptoms in adults with depression. The analysis included 41 studies and found that vitamin D was more effective than a placebo in alleviating symptoms. However, the results were limited by study heterogeneity and risk of bias.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalCritical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition·DateAug 12, 2022

Down on Vitamin D? It could be the cause of chronic inflammation

A world-first study reveals a direct link between low vitamin D and high inflammation, providing a biomarker for those at risk of chronic illnesses. Boosting vitamin D in people with deficiencies may reduce chronic inflammation.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalInternational Journal of Epidemiology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 7, 2022

Supplemental vitamin D did not lower risk of fractures in healthy US adults

A recent study published in The New England Journal of Medicine found that supplemental vitamin D did not lower the risk of fractures in healthy US adults. The research, which involved over 1,991 incident fractures and 5.3 years of follow-up, also showed no effects on major osteoporotic fractures or wrist/pelvic fractures.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJul 27, 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.

Differentiation of rickets and classic metaphyseal lesions on radiographs

A multicenter study found that radiologists can accurately diagnose rickets and classic metaphyseal lesions (CMLs) with high interobserver agreement and diagnostic performance. The study highlighted the importance of considering age factors in diagnosis, as CMLs mostly occur in children younger than 6 months.

SourceAmerican Roentgen Ray Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·TypeImaging analysis·DateJul 6, 2022

Taking Vitamin D during pregnancy could lower the risk of eczema in babies

A new study published in the British Journal of Dermatology found that taking Vitamin D supplements during pregnancy can substantially reduce the chances of babies developing atopic eczema. Babies who were breastfed for more than a month showed a lower risk of eczema, suggesting that supplementation may have long-lasting benefits.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalBritish Journal of Dermatology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJul 5, 2022

Study finds low vitamin D levels in young people of color

A University of Houston study found that 61% of Black and Hispanic adolescents have low vitamin D levels, which can lead to cardiovascular disease, certain cancers, type 2 diabetes, and renal disease. The research emphasizes the importance of raising awareness among clinicians about social determinants of health and providing culturall...

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalJournal of Pediatric Health Care·DateJun 28, 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.

Vitamins, supplements are a ‘waste of money’ for most Americans

A systematic review of 84 studies found insufficient evidence that multivitamins or supplements can prevent cardiovascular disease and cancer in healthy adults. In contrast, diet and exercise are key to maintaining health. Whole fruits and vegetables contain a mixture of vitamins, phytochemicals, fiber, and other nutrients that act syn...

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJAMA·DateJun 21, 2022

Vitamin D deficiency leads to dementia

A world-first study from the University of South Australia found a direct link between vitamin D deficiency and increased risk of dementia and stroke. The study analyzed data from 294,514 participants and found that up to 17% of dementia cases might have been avoided by boosting vitamin D levels.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 13, 2022
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Vitamin D does not prevent type 2 diabetes in high risk adults, trial finds

A large Japanese trial found that daily vitamin D supplements had no clinically meaningful effect on preventing type 2 diabetes in people at high risk of the condition. However, results suggested a potential benefit for those with insufficient insulin secretion, warranting further research.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 25, 2022

Gene-edited tomatoes could be a new source of vitamin D

Researchers have developed gene-edited tomatoes that can produce vitamin D3 through exposure to UVB light. The tomato leaves naturally contain provitamin D3, which accumulates in the fruit after editing. This breakthrough could help millions of people with vitamin D insufficiency and provide a plant-based source of vitamin D3.

SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalNature Plants·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 23, 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.

Calcium supps linked to earlier death in older people with heart valve disease

A large observational study found that calcium supplements increased the risk of death and cardiovascular disease in older adults with aortic valve stenosis. The study, published in the journal Heart, suggests that long-term continuous calcium supplementation should be avoided for patients with high-risk cardiovascular disease.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalHeart·TypeObservational study·DateApr 25, 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.

Sunlight’s healing effects help imperiled green sea turtles with tumors

Researchers at Florida Atlantic University found that increasing sun exposure in rehabilitation facilities can enhance health and recovery in green sea turtles with fibropapillomatosis. Vitamin D levels increased significantly in turtles exposed to higher UV light, leading to less tumor regrowth and improved overall health.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalAnimals·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 12, 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.

Study strengthens case that vitamins cannot treat COVID-19

A new review of COVID-19 hospitalization data found no reduction in mortality for patients treated with vitamin D, vitamin C, or zinc. However, treatment with vitamin D may be associated with lower rates of intubation and shorter hospital stays.

SourceUniversity of Toledo·JournalClinical Nutrition ESPEN·TypeMeta-analysis·DateFeb 17, 2022
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.