Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Vanillin flavoring in e-cigarettes disrupts human embryonic stem cell development

A UC Riverside-led study suggests that vanillin flavoring in e-cigarettes may disrupt the normal development of embryos in pregnant women who vape. Researchers found that high concentrations of vanillin can cause human embryonic stem cells to lose pluripotency and differentiate into endoderm, potentially leading to serious developmenta...

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalHuman Reproduction·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 13, 2026

Nicotine e-cigarettes for cigarette smoking cessation

A recent study published in JAMA finds that nicotine e-cigarettes are an effective treatment for smoking cessation. The research suggests that e-cigarettes can help reduce the harms of cigarette smoking and support evidence-based pharmacologic treatment for smokers seeking to quit.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateJul 30, 2026

What are nicotine pouches?

Nicotine pouches are a new form of nicotine delivery that has sparked concerns over safety and efficacy. Researchers warn of potential harms, side effects, and accidental use, as well as the risk of dependence on these products.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateJul 30, 2026
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Cardiovascular risk reclassification with the 2026 Dyslipidemia Guideline

The 2026 American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association/Multisociety Dyslipidemia Guideline reclassified approximately one-quarter of adults, with two-thirds reassigned to lower-risk categories and one-third to higher-risk categories. This shift was driven by differences in risk factors among males, non-Hispanic Black indivi...

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateJul 20, 2026

Is hookah safer? Or is that belief just blowing smoke?

A new study investigates how waterpipe size and heating sources affect hookah smoking, aiming to clarify the risks associated with this popular pastime. Researchers hope their findings will empower people to make informed decisions about their health and guide future regulations.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateJul 7, 2026
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.

Secondhand smoke can leave cancer-causing cadmium in the body

A study by Texas A&M University found that breathing in secondhand cigarette smoke significantly raises toxic cadmium levels in adults, increasing the risk of cancer and other chronic diseases. The study also revealed disparities in cadmium exposure among racial minority groups and individuals with lower education or income.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalBiological Trace Element Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 15, 2026

Nicotine e-cigarettes reduce harmful chemical exposure, help smokers quit

A new study found that switching to a nicotine e-cigarette reduces toxicant exposure and improves quitting rates, with the nicotine group having a higher chance of quitting entirely. The study's results suggest that nicotine e-cigarettes could serve as an effective off-ramp for smokers seeking to reduce their tobacco use.

SourcePenn State·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 19, 2026

Wildfire smoke risks understudied, review paper warns

A new review paper warns that wildfire smoke's health risks remain poorly understood due to a lack of direct biomedical evidence. The study argues that most current research relies on population-level correlations rather than detailed biomedical analysis.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalFrontiers in Public Health·TypeLiterature review·DateMay 7, 2026
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.

Heavy air pollution is linked to worse post-surgical outcomes

Research finds association between high air pollution and increased risk of post-surgical complications, including sepsis, pneumonia, and surgical wound infection. Higher levels of PM2.5 air pollution above EPA daily limits increase risk by 8%.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalActa Anaesthesiologica Scandinavica·TypeObservational study·DateMay 6, 2026
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.

The giant fire tornado that could save our oceans

Researchers have developed a new method for cleaning oil spills using massive fire whirls, which can burn through crude oil nearly twice as fast as in-situ fire pools. The results show that fire whirls produce 40% less soot and consume up to 95% of the fuel, leaving fewer harmful particles behind.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalFuel·DateFeb 16, 2026

Sex and all-cause mortality in the US, 1999 to 2019

A cohort study of 47,000 adults found that males had a 63% greater risk of all-cause mortality compared to females after adjusting for demographic and behavioral factors. The study suggests intrinsic biological factors, such as sex hormones or immune response, may contribute to these sex differences in mortality.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJan 30, 2026

Age-based screening for lung cancer surveillance in the US

Current USPSTF guidelines exclude two-thirds of patients from age-based screening, disproportionately affecting women and never-smokers. Age-based screening has been shown to improve detection and demonstrated superior cost-effectiveness compared to existing programs.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateNov 20, 2025

Hidden toxins in e-cigarette fluids may harm lung cells

Researchers at UC Riverside discovered that two toxic chemicals can form when propylene glycol is heated, harming human lung cells. The chemicals, methylglyoxal and acetaldehyde, disrupt cell functions and cause damage even at low levels.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalFrontiers in Toxicology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 23, 2025
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Veterans more likely than general population to use all types of tobacco products, including the most harmful

A new study reveals that Veterans are disproportionately using all commercial tobacco products, including e-cigarettes and smokeless tobacco. The study found that Veterans had a higher risk for former and current tobacco use, as well as multiple product use, posing significant health risks.

SourceBoston University School of Public Health·JournalNicotine & Tobacco Research·TypeSurvey·DateOct 2, 2025

Frequent wildfires, heat intensify air quality issues in American megacities such as New York City

Research from Colorado State University reveals how wildfire smoke combines with existing particulate pollution to create secondary, often more toxic, pollution and contribute to ozone formation. The study found that 90% of aerosol pollution over NYC is sensitive to at least one aspect of global changes, such as high temperatures.

SourceColorado State University·Journalnpj Climate and Atmospheric Science·DateSep 30, 2025

As pesticides and wildfires rise, kids with cancer need resources

A growing body of research links environmental pollutants to worsened health and shorter life spans in childhood cancer survivors. The study found that only 25% of pediatric oncology providers felt comfortable discussing environmental pollutant impacts with patients.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalCancers·DateSep 16, 2025

Mortality associated with fine particles from wildfires may be underestimated by 93%

A new study suggests that exposure to wildfire-derived PM2.5 is linked to increased mortality and morbidity, with a 93% underestimation of the actual death toll. The research estimated 535 annual deaths from all causes due to short-term exposure to wildfire smoke.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalThe Lancet Planetary Health·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 13, 2025
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.

Use of tobacco and cannabis following state-level cannabis legalization

A longitudinal cohort study found that recreational cannabis legalization was associated with increased cannabis and electronic nicotine delivery systems use, but not a significant increase in cigarette use. The study suggests that commercialization policy should be closely monitored as retail cannabis expands.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJul 11, 2025

More people need to know how to prevent SIDS

The study reveals that many people are unaware of two crucial facts that can help reduce SIDS deaths: putting babies on their backs to sleep, and avoiding secondhand smoke in the home. The survey found that only 65% know that a baby should be put to sleep on its back, highlighting a need for increased education and awareness.

SourceAnnenberg Public Policy Center of the University of Pennsylvania·TypeSurvey·DateJul 3, 2025

Fire smoke exposure may alter the immune system, even in healthy individuals

A new study led by Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health researchers found that fire smoke exposure can alter the immune system on a cellular level, even in healthy individuals. Exposure to particulate matter, gases, and other compounds in fire smoke was linked to changes in immune cells, inflammation, and gene expression.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalNature Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateJun 26, 2025

New USC study links wildfire smoke exposure and heat stress to adverse birth outcomes

A recent USC study found associations between increased exposure to wildfire smoke and heat stress during preconception and the first trimester with the odds of having a small-for-gestational-age infant. Living in a climate-vulnerable neighborhood can increase these risks, particularly for women exposed to heat stress.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJun 18, 2025
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

New study highlights health risks of ultrasonic cigarettes

A new study by UC Riverside researchers reveals that ultrasonic cigarettes may pose significant health risks due to the presence of harmful metals in their liquids and aerosols. The study found elevated levels of metals like arsenic and selenium in u-cigarette products, which can lead to lung diseases, organ damage, and cancer.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 28, 2025

Study suggests loss of lung capacity begins between the ages of 20 and 25

A study published in The Lancet Respiratory Medicine found that lung capacity develops in two phases: rapid growth during childhood and slower growth until peak lung function. Lung function starts to decline after the peak age, contrary to previous models. Persistent asthma and smoking affect lung function differently than thought.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalThe Lancet Respiratory Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateMay 15, 2025

Nicotine pouch and e-cigarette use and co-use among U.S. youths

A cross-sectional study finds a doubling in nicotine pouch past-30-day use and an increase in pouch plus e-cigarette dual use, leading to decreased exclusive e-cigarette use among US 10th and 12th graders. Prioritizing surveillance, regulation, and prevention strategies is crucial for addressing pediatric nicotine pouch use.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateApr 30, 2025
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 study reveals how to make prescribed forest fires burn safer and cleaner

Scientists at Stanford University have discovered a method to perform prescribed burns with drastically reduced health implications by adjusting burn conditions. By tweaking moisture, heat, and oxygen levels, PAH emissions can be slashed by up to 77%, cutting cancer risks from smoke exposure by over 50%.

SourceStanford University·JournalAtmospheric Pollution Research·DateApr 15, 2025
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.

Wildfire recovery: What victims say they need most

A new study by UC Davis School of Medicine identifies four major areas of need among wildfire victims, including mental health support and health information. The research reveals that mental health needs are the most predominant health-related need at all time points.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalEnvironmental Research·TypeSurvey·DateApr 9, 2025

Smoke from US wildfires, prescribed burns caused premature deaths, billions in health damages

A new study by Carnegie Mellon University researchers found that smoke from US wildfires and prescribed burns caused $200 billion in health damages in 2017, resulting in 20,000 premature deaths. Senior citizens were disproportionately affected, with Native American and Black communities experiencing the greatest harms per capita.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·DateApr 8, 2025

Exposure to wildfire smoke linked with worsening mental health conditions

A new study found that exposure to fine particulate air pollution from wildfire smoke was associated with increased visits to emergency departments for mental health conditions. The study suggests that wildfire smoke may play a direct role in worsening mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeObservational study·DateApr 4, 2025
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Pregnant women advised to avoid mentholated e-cigarettes

A new study suggests that menthol in electronic cigarettes may pose risks to a developing baby, inhibiting cell growth and increasing cell death. The researchers recommend discouraging the use of mentholated e-cigarettes during pregnancy until more research is conducted.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalStem Cells Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 27, 2025

Do-it-yourself box filter clears the air of indoor pollutants

Researchers developed a low-cost, durable DIY air cleaner that works as well as HEPA filters to clear indoor air pollutants. The Corsi-Rosenthal Box, comprising common HVAC filters, performed as well or better than comparable HEPA filters in removing particles from the air.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateMar 24, 2025

Weather emergencies affect older adults’ views on climate and health

A new poll found that nearly 3/4 of older Americans have experienced at least one extreme weather event, increasing their concern about climate change's effects on their health. Those who lived through such events are more likely to express worry about the impact on themselves and future generations.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·TypeSurvey·DateMar 20, 2025

Smoke from wildland-urban interface fires more deadly than remote wildfires

Emissions from WUI fires are proportionately three times more likely to lead to premature deaths than emissions from remote wildfires. The study drew on a database of WUI fires and advanced computer modeling techniques to simulate pollutants from fires.

SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 14, 2025
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.

Models show intensifying wildfires in a warming world due to changes in vegetation and humidity; only a minor role for lightning

A new study reveals that climate change is driving intensifying wildfires by altering vegetation and humidity levels, but not significantly impacting lightning strikes. The simulations predict a 14% increase in global area burned by fires annually with every degree of global warming.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalScience Advances·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 12, 2025
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.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Exposure to secondhand cannabis smoke among children

A cross-sectional study found that children exposed to secondhand cannabis smoke at home have significantly higher urinary cannabinoid biomarker levels, indicating increased exposure to toxic and carcinogenic chemicals. Reducing in-home cannabis smoking can substantially reduce child exposure to these harmful substances.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJan 23, 2025

Residents of unburned homes reported health symptoms months after Marshall Fire

A survey of residents affected by the 2021 Marshall Fire found that those living near burned structures experienced frequent headaches, sore throats, and coughs. Researchers found that visible ash in homes increased the likelihood of reporting these symptoms, which improved with cleaning and HVAC system changes.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS ES&T Air·DateJan 14, 2025

Research explores wildfire smoke’s effect on solar power generation across US

New research from Colorado State University finds that wildfire smoke has a modest impact on long-term solar power generation activity in the US. The study, published in Nature Communications, shows that power generated from photovoltaics remained relatively stable even in extreme fire seasons, with losses averaging around 5%.

SourceColorado State University·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 6, 2025
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.