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New research shows Vype ePen 3 highly preferred by vapers

The study shows Vype ePen 3 is superior to Vype ePen 2 for nicotine delivery and ranked significantly higher in user satisfaction. The device scored nearly double the likability compared to its predecessor, with improved design features such as increased power and protonated nicotine.

SourceR&D at British American Tobacco·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 24, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Vaping may increase respiratory disease risk by more than 40%: BU study

Researchers from Boston University School of Public Health found that e-cigarette use is associated with a 21% increase in respiratory disease risk and a 43% increase in chronic bronchitis risk. Current e-cigarette users are also at higher risk for emphysema, COPD, and asthma.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateNov 12, 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.

Lung symptoms common among users of e-cigarettes and related products

Researchers found that over half of e-cigarette users reported symptoms like cough and nausea, with those using flavored products and refillable devices more likely to experience severe symptoms. The study highlights the need for better understanding of e-cigarette risks among healthcare professionals and parents of youth.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateNov 9, 2020

Study finds lowering nicotine decreases addictiveness of smoking in vulnerable populations

A study published in JAMA Network Open found that reducing nicotine levels in cigarettes decreases addictiveness, particularly among those with mental illness and socioeconomic disadvantage. The research suggests that lower nicotine content could lead to policy changes benefiting all smokers, especially the most vulnerable.

SourceLarner College of Medicine at the University of Vermont·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateOct 20, 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.

Research pinpoints major drivers of tobacco epidemic among teens in South Asia

A new study by University of York found that TV advertising, free tobacco products, and exposure to smoking in public places are the biggest drivers of tobacco use among teens in South Asia. Teaching adolescents about the harmful effects of tobacco at school was effective in reducing smokeless tobacco use but not smoking.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalNicotine & Tobacco Research·DateOct 12, 2020

Rutgers experts urge ban of menthol cigarettes nationwide

The American Medical Association joins forces with the African American Tobacco Control Leadership Council in urging a ban on menthol-flavored tobacco products. Research shows that menthol cigarette smoking persists among vulnerable populations, despite declining overall cigarette consumption. Experts argue that banning menthol cigaret...

SourceRutgers University·JournalNicotine & Tobacco Research·DateOct 9, 2020

Parents less aware when their kids vape than when they smoke

A UCSF study found parents are more likely to know their child is using e-cigarettes if they're older and male, but less aware of vaping compared to smoking. Parents setting strict household rules can help prevent tobacco use in children.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateOct 5, 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.

Would menthol cigarettes be banned if the typical consumer was young, white and upper-middle class?

A new study suggests that banning menthol cigarettes could avert over 630,000 deaths and benefit communities of color. The research highlights the disproportionate preference for menthol among young smokers, Black smokers, lesbian and gay smokers, bisexual smokers, and those with mental health problems.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalNicotine & Tobacco Research·DateOct 1, 2020

Covert tobacco industry marketing tactics exposed by former employees

A study published in Global Public Health reveals that tobacco companies are using cash payments, holidays, and exclusive events to incentivize retailers, bypassing current laws. Former employees describe the tactics as aimed at increasing market share and driving sales through retailer loyalty.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalGlobal Public Health·DateSep 29, 2020

Covert tobacco industry marketing tactics exposed by former employees

Researchers found that tobacco companies use cash payments, holidays, and events to incentivize retailers to promote their products, reaching consumers indirectly. The study calls for strengthened laws to prohibit all marketing of tobacco products, with no contributions allowed.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalGlobal Public Health·DateSep 28, 2020

Tests indicate modern oral nicotine products elicit lower toxicity responses than cigs

New research by British American Tobacco indicates that modern oral nicotine products (MOPs) are less biologically active than traditional cigarettes and snus, with some products failing to elicit a biological response. The study suggests MOPs may be a reduced-risk option for users who switch completely from smoking.

SourceR&D at British American Tobacco·JournalFood and Chemical Toxicology·DateSep 28, 2020

'Best' hospitals should be required to deliver tobacco treatment

A new report highlights the need for top hospitals to prioritize tobacco treatment, citing a disconnect between rankings and smoking cessation care. The study's authors argue that addressing tobacco dependence should be a priority, especially given its impact on various health conditions, resulting in significant healthcare costs.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateSep 21, 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.

E. coli bacteria offer path to improving photosynthesis

Researchers created an optimal experimental environment by introducing engineered plant enzyme into E. coli bacteria. They discovered that a specific subunit of Rubisco works faster than others and can be improved in bacteria to boost crop productivity.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature Plants·DateSep 21, 2020

Smokers increasingly using e-cigarettes to quit, New Zealand survey shows

A New Zealand survey found that e-cigarette use is increasing among smokers and recent quitters, with most common reasons being to help quit or cut down on smoking. The study suggests e-cigarettes are contributing to reducing smoking prevalence, but more work is needed to achieve the goal of becoming smokefree by 2025.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateSep 17, 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.

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.

UC study: Secondhand smoke sends more kids to the hospital

A new UC study found that children exposed to tobacco smoke have higher rates of hospital admissions and respiratory-related procedures, with increased risk of asthma treatments. The study suggests that emergency departments should screen for tobacco smoke exposure and provide resources to families.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalPediatric Research·DateSep 8, 2020

Studies: E-cigarettes won't help smokers quit, but they may become addicted to vaping

Two studies found that e-cigarettes are not effective in helping adults quit smoking, but may lead to nicotine dependence. Researchers used data from a large nationally representative longitudinal study and found that cessation rates did not differ between e-cigarette users and closely matched smokers who did not use e-cigarettes.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 2, 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.

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

Strigolactones increase tolerance to weevils in tobacco plants

Research at the Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology found that strigolactones regulate plant defense against endophytic Trichobaris mucorea larvae by influencing jasmonate and auxin signaling pathways. This enables tobacco plants to produce defensive substances, increasing their tolerance to the weevil's attack.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology·JournalPLOS Biology·DateAug 24, 2020

Though concerned about COVID-19, cigar smokers are smoking more, survey finds

A recent survey of nearly 800 cigar smokers found that more than twice as many reported increasing their tobacco use since the pandemic's onset. The study suggests that stress, anxiety, and reduced access to cessation resources may contribute to this trend.

SourceUNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateAug 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.

Group-based smoking cessation help US inmates quit tobacco

Rutgers researchers found that a combination of behavioral and nicotine replacement therapies helps incarcerated men and transgender women quit smoking. The six-week program led to significant reductions in tobacco smoking or complete abstinence, suggesting its potential for larger-scale studies.

SourceRutgers University·DateJul 30, 2020

Quitline plus surgery are big motivators for giving up smoking

A new study from UC Davis Health found that combining thoracic surgery with a quitline e-referral program significantly improves tobacco cessation rates. The study showed that surgical patients who participated in the program were three times more likely to remain smoke-free at six months compared to those without the intervention.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateJul 28, 2020

Experts strongly recommend varenicline over the patch for adult smokers hoping to quit

The American Thoracic Society's new guideline recommends varenicline as the optimal controller medication for clinicians to use initially in treating tobacco dependence. Introducing varenicline before a patient expresses willingness to quit results in an additional 308 patients achieving abstinence.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateJul 15, 2020

Flavored cigarette ban significantly reduced youth smoking, new study finds

A new study by George Mason University found that the flavored cigarette ban in 2009 significantly reduced smoking among youth (ages 12-17 years) by 43%. Young adults aged 18-25 years saw a reduction of 27%. The study suggests that comprehensive flavor bans on tobacco and nicotine products could be effective.

SourceGeorge Mason University·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·DateJul 15, 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.

Non-tobacco plant identified in ancient pipe for first time

Researchers identified Rhus glabra, a smooth sumac plant, as the first non-tobacco plant found in an archeological pipe. The discovery sheds light on ancient plant mixtures used by Native American tribes for ceremonial and medicinal purposes.

SourceWashington State University·JournalFrontiers in Molecular Biosciences·DateJun 26, 2020

First comparison of dangers of tobacco cigarettes, e-cigarettes and waterpipes

A study published in the European Heart Journal finds that tobacco cigarettes are more harmful than e-cigarettes, while waterpipe smoke poses significant health risks. The review highlights the need for further investigation into the long-term effects of e-cigarettes and waterpipes on human health.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateJun 25, 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.

How EU safety legislation has affected UK vapers

A new study from the University of East Anglia reveals that EU safety regulations have reassured UK vapers but also led to concerns about restricted e-liquid products and black market sales. The research highlights the need for awareness about vaping product safety and regulation.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalTobacco Use Insights·DateJun 18, 2020

Zhao receives funding for youth tobacco education campaigns

Dr. Xiaoquan Zhao received funding from the Food and Drug Administration to support youth tobacco education campaigns. He will serve as a consultant to the FDA Center for Tobacco Products to evaluate evidence-based public health communication and marketing interventions.

SourceGeorge Mason University·DateJun 12, 2020

Plant cell gatekeepers' diversity could be key to better crops

Researchers have identified 76 types of aquaporins in tobacco, a model plant species closely related to major crops like tomato and potato. This discovery sheds light on the functional roles of aquaporins in plants, which could lead to improved crop productivity and resilience.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Translational Photosynthesis·JournalBMC Plant Biology·DateJun 12, 2020

Risk of stroke may more than double for African Americans who smoke

Current cigarette smoking is associated with a significantly higher risk of stroke among African Americans, with the risk doubling for those who smoke compared to nonsmokers. The study found that smokers were more than twice as likely to experience stroke, and the risk increased with the number of cigarettes smoked per day.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateJun 10, 2020
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.

No smoke, but still hazardous

A KAUST research team discovered that IQOS emits 62 compounds, 52 of which were not found in Philip Morris International tests, including diacetyl and potentially carcinogenic diethylhexyl phthalate.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalTobacco Control·DateJun 4, 2020

Tobacco companies minting it before Wednesday's UK menthol cigarette ban

New research found that tobacco companies continued to sell and promote menthol products despite a four-year phasing-in period for the UK's menthol cigarette ban. The study reveals that industry experts developed new products to circumvent the ban, including menthol filters and flavour cards.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalTobacco Control·DateMay 17, 2020

Smoking may explain why more men than women die of COVID-19 in Spain

Researchers suggest that tobacco use contributes to the disparity in COVID-19 mortality rates between men and women in Spain, with over 30% of deaths attributed to cardiovascular disease. The study calls for increased data collection on tobacco use among those infected and measures to curb smoking during the pandemic.

SourceUniversitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC)·JournalTobacco Use Insights·DateApr 29, 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.

Promoting advantages of product category, such as e-cigarettes, can backfire

A UC Davis study found that promoting e-cigarettes as a healthier alternative to combustible cigarettes backfired, resulting in increased social valuations of e-cigarettes as bad or worse than cigarettes. The study analyzed over 1,200 documents and conducted interviews with policymakers, public health advocates, and industry leaders.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalAdministrative Science Quarterly·DateApr 22, 2020

JUUL sales bounced back within weeks of self-imposed flavor ban

After JUUL removed flavored products, sales shifted to menthol and tobacco flavors, with the company's sales surpassing previous highs within weeks. The study suggests that self-imposed restrictions on flavored e-cigarettes are unlikely to improve public health and that market demand will fill the void.

SourceAmerican Cancer Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateApr 16, 2020
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.

Kids or teen smokers are less likely to kick the habit as adults

A new international study found that starting smoking at a young age significantly increases the likelihood of becoming a daily smoker as an adult. The study analyzed data from over 6,600 participants and found that even children who only tried smoking minimally were more likely to end up as daily adult smokers. The results support Tob...

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateApr 8, 2020

Concern over industry support for wider access to medical cannabis

A recent investigation by The BMJ uncovered links between groups advocating for wider medical cannabis access and those pushing for recreational legalization. Industry funding for research into medicinal properties of cannabis has raised concerns about conflicts of interest and the potential normalization of cannabis use.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateMar 18, 2020

Observed 'gateway' effect of e-cigarettes among teens 'likely to be small'

Research comparing teen e-cigarette users with those who tried other tobacco products first found that only a tiny proportion of experimental vapers went on to smoke. Young vapers were less likely to smoke than peers trying out other tobacco products, contradicting previous studies linking teen vaping to smoking.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalTobacco Control·DateMar 17, 2020
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.