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New research suggests political events impact sleep

A study by Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center found that divisive political events negatively influence factors related to public mood, well-being, and alcohol consumption. Participants reported reduced sleep quality, increased stress, negative mood, and higher alcohol use in the days leading up to the election.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalSleep Health·DateNov 7, 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.

Marital stress linked to worse recovery after heart attack

Researchers found that marital stress among younger adults (ages 18–55 years) is associated with poorer recovery after a heart attack. The study of over 1,593 participants showed that higher levels of marital stress were linked to reduced physical and mental health outcomes.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateOct 31, 2022

As sea ice retreats, narwhals are changing their migration patterns

Scientists have found that narwhals are changing their migration patterns in response to sea ice loss due to climate change. The study, published in PNAS, shows significant delays in autumn migrations and sex-specific differences in departure times.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeMeta-analysis·DateOct 25, 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.

Wear and tear from lifelong stress can increase cancer mortality

Researchers found that individuals with high allostatic load, a measure of chronic stress, were 2.4 times more likely to die from cancer than those with low loads. Adjusting for age, sex, and race, the risk increased to 28% for those with high allostatic load.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalSSM - Population Health·DateOct 6, 2022

Molecular changes in the brain in the aftermath of a traumatic event may help explain long-term susceptibility or resilience

Researchers found that stressed mice exhibited decreased neuron excitability in the dorsal hippocampus, which may drive social avoidance, while resilient mice showed increased excitability. This difference was linked to changes in stress hormone receptors and HCN1 protein expression.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateSep 20, 2022

Past history of abuse leads to worse menopause symptoms

A history of psychosocial stressors from childhood through pregnancy is associated with worse menopause symptoms and poorer well-being almost 2 decades later. Researchers found that physical abuse, sexual abuse, and financial instability were linked to increased symptoms.

SourceThe Menopause Society·JournalMenopause·TypeSurvey·DateSep 14, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

More stress, fewer coping resources for Latina mothers post-Trump

A study from UC San Diego finds increased depression, anxiety, and perceived stress in Latina mothers, particularly those in border cities, due to reduced coping resources. The researchers attribute these findings to the increasing hostility of the political climate towards Latinx Americans.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 12, 2022

Half of moms of kids with autism have high depressive symptoms

Researchers found that mothers' higher depressive symptoms did not predict increases in children's behavior problems, including those with autism. The study suggests that maternal depression may have a complex impact on caregiving families.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalFamily Process·DateAug 26, 2022

How college students perceive academic stress affects their mental well-being

A Rutgers study found that nonbinary and female college students, as well as those in their second year, are most affected by academic stress, leading to poor mental well-being. The researchers recommend colleges provide tailored mental health resources, stress-management strategies, and peer support groups to help build resilience.

SourceRutgers University·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·TypeSurvey·DateAug 9, 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.

Signaling ‘stressed-out’ plants

Researchers have discovered that reactive oxygen species (ROS) can serve as a communication signal to indicate plant stress, which is critical for crop survival and can significantly decrease with multiple stressors. By monitoring ROS levels, farmers can identify plants under stress and take corrective measures to prevent crop loss.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalNature Reviews Molecular Cell Biology·DateAug 1, 2022

Climate change, labor market and the future of gender inequality: the case of South Africa

A recent study found that climate change will decrease the availability of female low-skilled labor, driving a potential increase in their wages. This could close the wage gap between male and female low-skilled labor as well as the wage gap between low-skilled and high-skilled female labor.

SourceCMCC Foundation - Euro-Mediterranean Center on Climate Change·JournalClimate and Development·DateJul 14, 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.

Ukraine war and refugee health

The article highlights key health considerations for Ukrainian refugees in Canada, including timely access to care and trauma-informed approaches. Key gaps in the Canadian healthcare system include lack of universal access to interpreters and coordinated care across services.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJul 11, 2022

Helping teens channel stress, grow in resilience

A new study teaches teenagers to reframe their stress responses from negative to positive driving forces. The intervention improves stress-linked health outcomes, including biological responses, psychological well-being, anxiety symptoms, and academic performance in high-stress environments.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 6, 2022

Study reveals the job problems contributing to physician suicide

A UC San Diego study reveals six overarching themes contributing to physician job stress and suicide, including physical health deterioration and financial stress. The research calls for short-term solutions like improved access to primary care and long-term changes to address workplace culture and self-care.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalSuicide and Life-Threatening Behavior·DateJun 29, 2022

Clues to bee health found in their gut microbiome

Researchers sequenced the whole genomes of three species of carpenter bees, gaining insights into their gut microbiome, diet, and viral load. They found beneficial bacteria, including Lactobacillus, which protect against fungal pathogens and boost the immune system.

SourceYork University·JournalCommunications Biology·DateJun 17, 2022

Community-engagement preventive intervention promotes mental health of Bhutanese families in Western Massachusetts

A peer-led, family-centered preventive intervention is being tested to reduce stress, anxiety, and depressive symptoms among Bhutanese immigrants. The program, developed by Kalpana Poudel-Tandukar, uses problem management plus (PMP) and addresses multiple stressors, resulting in improved coping skills and social networking.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalBMJ Open·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 1, 2022
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.

New studies shed light on election-related stress

Researchers found that anticipating future stress related to elections can affect people's emotional well-being before anything has happened. Education was shown to help protect individuals against these stresses, even for those actively engaged in the political process.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalCurrent Psychology·TypeObservational study·DateMay 31, 2022

Healthy development thanks to older siblings

A new study found that children with older siblings are less likely to develop behavioral problems, suggesting a positive impact of sibling relationships on child development. The study also highlights the importance of early intervention policies to reduce maternal stress and promote healthy child development.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology·JournalBMC Public Health·DateMay 31, 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.

Ecological functions of streams and rivers severely affected globally

International meta-analysis finds that streams and rivers' efficiency in retaining nitrates is nearly five times lower for agricultural catchments than pristine ones. Wastewater, agriculture, and urbanization are the top stressors affecting ecological functions, highlighting the need for urgent action.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ·JournalGlobal Change Biology·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMay 17, 2022

Neighborhoods most affected by racism, inequities and COVID-19 pandemic stressors at a greater risk for preterm births, study finds

A cohort study of nearly 1,000 pregnant persons in NYC found that neighborhoods most affected by racism and economic inequality had higher rates of COVID-19 infection and preterm births. The researchers linked structural racism and community unemployment to increased risk of preterm birth.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology MFM·DateMay 2, 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.

Relationship quality affects depressive symptoms in African American couples

A new study found that partner support significantly influences changes in depressive symptoms over time, but relationship satisfaction and effective arguing have a weaker effect. The research suggests strengthening partner support can improve mental health for individuals in committed relationships.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Family Psychology·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 25, 2022

Prenatal exposure to early-life adversity, brain volumes at birth

A recent study of 280 mother-infant pairs found that prenatal exposure to social disadvantage and psychosocial stress was associated with reduced infant brain volumes at birth. The researchers used magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to measure the brain volumes of the infants at birth.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateApr 12, 2022

To save California's whales, put overlooked threats into policy

Researchers highlight the need for a holistic approach to managing whale mortality in California's waters. The study identifies five main causes of death, but also emphasizes the importance of addressing nutritional stress, disease and predation to provide a comprehensive conservation strategy.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalMarine Policy·TypeLiterature review·DateApr 6, 2022

Molecules produced by cells in response to stress may be indicators of various diseases

Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital have discovered that certain RNA molecules called tDRs released by cells in response to stress can serve as markers of cellular stress in different diseases. The study created an atlas of stress signatures for tDRs, which can be used to diagnose and understand various conditions.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalAdvanced Science·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 5, 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 highlights relationship between racism, activism and stress

A recent study from North Carolina State University found that experiencing racism is stressful for Black youth, while taking action to address racism also contributes to stress. The study suggests a reciprocal relationship between racism-related physiological stress and high-risk activism among emerging adults.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalChild Development·TypeSurvey·DateMar 17, 2022

BU study: Having assets may protect people from persistent depression during COVID

A new BU study found that individuals with physical, social, and financial assets, particularly higher incomes and fewer savings, were less likely to experience sustained depression during the first year of the pandemic. Persistent depression was highest among people in low-income households and those with fewer savings.

SourceBoston University School of Public Health·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 2, 2022

Are pandemic-related stressors impacting uninfected people’s brain health?

A new study from Massachusetts General Hospital found that living through the COVID-19 pandemic can lead to brain inflammation and symptoms like fatigue, concentration difficulties, and depression in uninfected people. The research suggests that societal and lifestyle disruptions during the pandemic may trigger this inflammatory response.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalBrain Behavior and Immunity·DateFeb 22, 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.

Seeing ‘green’ can ease confusion, anger in navigating hospitals, WVU researcher says

Research by Shan Jiang found that introducing nature views into hospital corridors can significantly ease confusion and anger in navigating large medical complexes. The study revealed that participants used shorter time and walked less distance to complete wayfinding tasks when exposed to green spaces.

SourceWest Virginia University·JournalHERD Health Environments Research & Design Journal·DateFeb 18, 2022

'Freeze or flee' reactions run in fish families

Researchers found that genetic relatedness correlates with hormonal responses and behavioural reactions in fish, allowing for selective breeding of less-stressed fish. This approach could simplify breeding methods for aquaculture and aquariums.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournaleLife·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 15, 2022

Transient BP spikes coupled to learning in brain

Researchers at University of Gothenburg discover a link between micro-stress and increased blood pressure, identifying a brain area controlling conscious motor skills. The study opens the door to influencing BP spikes and preventing hypertension through training.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalScientific Reports·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 13, 2022

Risk factors linked to anxiety disorders differ between men and women during the pandemic

A Canadian study found that the pandemic-related risk factors for anxiety differ between men and women, with 13.6% of Canadians experiencing clinically significant levels of Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD). Men's high anxiety was linked to exposure to COVID-19 misinformation, while women's anxiety was tied to precarious employment.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalJournal of Affective Disorders·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 8, 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.

New research reveals COVID-19 traumatic stress may predict PTSD, particularly for people with a history of trauma

A new study by Georgia State University reveals that COVID-19 traumatic stress may predict post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms, especially in individuals with a history of past trauma. The findings showed a positive association between COVID-19 traumatic stress and PTSD symptoms across racial groups, except for Asian Americans.

SourceGeorgia State University·JournalJournal of Community Psychology·TypeSurvey·DateJan 25, 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.

Delving into the pressures around penalty kicks

Professional footballers took penalty kicks under low and high-pressure conditions, revealing the impact of cognitive and somatic anxiety on performance. The study aimed to create a pressure protocol for penalty taking, assessing its effect on psychological and psychophysical responses.

SourceUniversity of Huddersfield·JournalJournal of Sports Science·TypeObservational study·DateDec 16, 2021

Stress may be driving inequities in alcohol problems for Black individuals

A new study by the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine highlights the link between stress and alcohol craving among Black individuals. The research found that higher stress levels are associated with stronger alcohol cravings for Black participants, but not white participants, suggesting a process of drinking to cope with stress.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalAddiction·DateDec 3, 2021

Chronic disease through the lens of COVID-19

A study by the CDC found a strong association between obesity and diabetes, both of which are widespread in the U.S., and severe COVID-19 disease. In South Carolina, chronic diseases disproportionately affect Black communities, increasing their risk of developing severe COVID-19.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·DateDec 3, 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.

Are pandemic-related stressors increasing young women’s vulnerability to STIs?

A recent study published in Frontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology found a significant increase in sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among girls and young women in western Kenya, coinciding with the COVID-19 pandemic. Researchers attribute this rise to increased stress-related changes in the vaginal microbiome.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 2, 2021

New model links cultural trauma with health inequalities

Researchers propose a new model linking cultural trauma to health disparities in US cultural groups, identifying cultural trauma as a fundamental cause of health disparities. The model suggests that damaging or destroying a group's culture can rob people of important resources for protecting their health.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalSocial Science & Medicine·TypeLiterature review·DateNov 23, 2021
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.

COVID-19 lockdowns deepened struggle for work-family balance

A new study by McGill University researchers found that COVID-19 lockdowns disproportionately affected graduate students' mental health, particularly among women. Women reported more stress related to remote teaching and caregiving responsibilities, leading to increased depressive symptoms.

SourceMcGill University·JournalPreventive Medicine Reports·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 10, 2021

Baby teeth may one day help identify kids at risk for mental disorders later in life

Researchers found a link between the width of growth marks on baby teeth and exposure to early-life adversity, including maternal stress and anxiety. The study's results could lead to the development of a tool to identify children at risk for mental health disorders, allowing for preventive treatments.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeObservational study·DateNov 10, 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.

Despite understanding the concept of mindfulness, people are applying it incorrectly, research finds

A new study by researchers at the University of Waterloo found that most people misunderstand the concept of mindfulness, confusing it with passive acceptance rather than engaging with life's challenges. The study suggests that laypeople may understand awareness but struggle to grasp the importance of acceptance in mindfulness practices.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalClinical Psychology Review·DateNov 8, 2021