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Officials leading hurricane response need ‘risk literacy’

A new study suggests that emergency management officials often lack the numeracy skills needed to make best evacuation decisions based on data. The most numerate officials provided additional evacuation times to their coastal communities, while less numerate ones gave less advance warning and over-evacuated tens of thousands more people.

SourceOhio State University·JournalBulletin of the American Meteorological Society·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 7, 2021

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

Human, swine waste pose dual threats to water quality after flooding

A study by North Carolina State University found that surface waters in eastern North Carolina were more likely to face dual contamination from human and swine waste after Hurricane Florence. The presence of Arcobacter, a pathogen not associated with human or swine fecal markers, was also discovered.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·TypeObservational study·DateAug 24, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

NIST's emberometer could gauge threat of wildfire-spreading embers

The NIST-developed emberometer uses digital cameras to track embers in mid-air and reconstruct their 3D shapes. This tool helps researchers understand the behavior of embers, which can aid in developing better protection for structures during wildfires.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalExperiments in Fluids·DateAug 18, 2021

Drier, warmer night air is making some Western wildfires more active at night

Research by University of Washington and US Forest Service scientists reveals a dramatic shift in nighttime air's drying power over the Western US, increasing wildfire activity. This shift is not captured in climate models, with some areas experiencing water loss doubling up on warmer nights.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·TypeObservational study·DateAug 5, 2021

Flood water: Toxins from the riverbed

A review of previous scientific studies on pollutant release from sediments during extreme flood events reveals significant risks to human and environmental health. The study highlights the need for good river management to address long-term consequences of pollutants in riverbeds.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalJournal of Hazardous Materials·TypeSystematic review·DateJul 30, 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.

Giant friction experiment at Kīlauea volcano

Researchers analyzed data from Kīlauea's caldera collapse to characterize friction at a large scale. The study confirms the role of slip-weakening distance in earthquake mechanics and provides insights into the physics governing caldera collapses.

SourceStanford University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 28, 2021

Researchers aim to advance NY winter-storm emergency response

Researchers at Cornell University are developing a hyperlocal weather forecasting system to improve winter-storm emergency response in rural New York communities. The system, led by professor Max Zhang, will integrate computer vision, numerical weather forecasting, and Internet of Things-based sensing packages.

SourceCornell University·DateMar 1, 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.

Effective government saves lives in cyclones, other disasters

A study by Cornell University researchers found that effective governments are associated with fewer deaths from tropical cyclone disasters. Governments in areas with weaker public services are particularly deadly.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 4, 2020

One-size does not fit all for post-disaster recovery, PSU study finds

A PSU study of 400 households after the 2015 Nepal earthquakes found that recovery is a dynamic process with multiple dimensions. Households with less herding and farming-based livelihoods, more market connections, and easier access to rebuilding funds were more resilient.

SourcePortland State University·JournalWorld Development·DateJul 30, 2020

Childhood trauma affects the timing of motherhood

A study conducted in Finland found that women who experienced childhood trauma became mothers earlier than those with a more stable upbringing. The research used data from volunteers who served in the 'Lotta Svärd' organisation during World War II, showing an increased rate of early motherhood among affected individuals.

SourceUniversity of Turku·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 4, 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.

Model can predict hospital resilience for natural disasters, pandemics

A new modeling tool helps city planners and emergency managers assess the full functionality and recovery of a healthcare system after a disaster. The model evaluates complex network dynamics, including staff availability, patient waiting times, and resource allocation.

SourceColorado State University·JournalReliability Engineering & System Safety·DateApr 29, 2020

Economic impacts of natural disasters

Researchers analyze data on international emergency events between 1960 and 2015, revealing growing hazards posed by severe events linked to climate change. Economic damages rise sharply worldwide, including in temperate areas, as death tolls from extreme temperature events increase in poor and rich countries.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 7, 2019

Valuing thoughts and prayers

A study involving 482 participants found that Christians value thoughts and prayers from fellow believers, but atheists/agnostics reject Christian prayers. People with non-Christian beliefs are willing to pay to avoid praying with a Christian.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 16, 2019
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.

Training teams for timely NICU evacuation

Children's National Hospital's NICU staff underwent evacuation simulation training to improve their skills and knowledge. The training, which included hands-on practice with mannequins and equipment, resulted in significant improvements in evacuation times and staff confidence.

SourceChildren's National Hospital·JournalThe Journal of Perinatal & Neonatal Nursing·DateAug 22, 2019

Tropical storms likely to become more deadly as climate changes

Research from Oregon State University suggests that climate change could lead to a 52% increase in tropical storm-related deaths, mainly affecting vulnerable populations in developing countries. The study's findings are based on analyzing mortality data and simulating the impact of climate change on storm frequency and severity.

SourceOregon State University·JournalWorld Development·DateMar 20, 2019

Study: Culture strongly influences coping behaviors after natural disasters

A new study found that cultural differences play a significant role in how young people cope with natural disasters. The research used a new method to assess coping among disaster-affected youths and found that middle-class teen girls in St. Tammany Parish, Louisiana, used different coping strategies than low-income, predominantly Afri...

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalSchool Mental Health·DateNov 2, 2018

Novel approach to making therapeutic proteins at point of care

A team of UMBC researchers has developed a novel approach to making therapeutic proteins available at the point of care, enabling faster drug development and more personalized medicines. The portable system, about the size of a suitcase, allows for rapid production without relying on manufacturing facilities or transport.

SourceUniversity of Maryland Baltimore County·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateJul 10, 2018
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.

Telemedicine aided people hit by hurricanes Harvey and Irma

A new study finds that telemedicine can offer aid to people hit by hurricanes Harvey and Irma by providing routine medical care in the days following the disaster. The top diagnosis during this time included acute respiratory illnesses and skin problems, similar to national trends.

SourceRAND Corporation·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateApr 25, 2018

Dementia an extra challenge in natural disasters

A new guide from QUT's Dementia Centre aims to prepare those who care for people with dementia to cope during natural disasters. The Preparing for a Natural Disaster Guide highlights the increased risks faced by carers of people with dementia, including exacerbated symptoms and potential harm.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·DateApr 25, 2018

Study: Corporations can benefit from altruism during a crisis

Research found that corporate social responsibility efforts during and after disasters build strong relationships with consumers if they appear altruistic on social media. Users who frequently use social media to find information during crises are more likely to trust companies engaged in CSR efforts.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·DateFeb 20, 2018

Algorithm identifies vulnerable people during natural disasters

A new algorithm developed at the University of Waterloo will help first responders and home care providers identify elderly individuals who are most vulnerable during natural disasters. The algorithm uses data from interRAI's home care assessment to generate an up-to-date list of those who may need assistance.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalJournal of Emergency Management·DateFeb 2, 2018
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

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.

Smeal research helps assess humanitarian response capacity in disasters

A new study led by Penn State Smeal College of Business researchers assesses the capacity of humanitarian response systems following disasters. The research proposes new metrics based on optimization models to guide individual decisions toward system improvement and aid in real-time assessment of stockpile capacity.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Operations Management·DateJun 12, 2017

Natural disasters pose grave threat to planet's last Javan rhinos

A new study warns that natural disasters like volcanic eruptions and tsunamis could wipe out the world's only population of Javan rhinoceros. The authors urge establishing additional rhino populations away from disaster zones to increase survival odds for at least part of the population.

SourceColorado State University·JournalConservation Letters·DateMay 9, 2017
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.

Changes of the transitional climate zone in East Asia

The transitional climate zone in East Asia experiences significant changes due to global warming, including coastward migration and aridity. Models largely reproduce the TCZ shape, but uncertainty from climate models dominates over emission scenarios.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalClimate Dynamics·DateNov 7, 2016

Trauma and shopping

A study of 355 World War II veterans found that those who experienced intense combat were more price-sensitive and less brand loyal. This research provides insights for store owners and aid providers on what items to stock in stores after a disaster, such as practical and affordable options like off-brand variety.

SourceCornell Food & Brand Lab·JournalFrontiers in Physiology·DateSep 6, 2016
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.

Schools are underprepared for pandemics and natural disasters: Study

A study published in the American Journal of Infection Control found that US schools are not better prepared for pandemics than they were in 2011. Schools reported having less than half of the measured indicators for preparedness, with notable gaps in bioterrorism readiness and addressing student psychological needs.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Infection Control·DateOct 5, 2015

North Korea to fight food insecurity and natural disaster with trees

The DPR Korea has launched a national agroforestry strategy and action plan to restore degraded landscapes, enhance soil quality, and increase crop yields. The initiative aims to alleviate food insecurity and reduce the frequency of natural disasters, with a focus on empowering local villagers through legal and institutional frameworks.

SourceWorld Agroforestry Centre (ICRAF)·DateAug 4, 2015

Social engagement aids disaster preparedness

A new study published in PLOS ONE found that community participation and social networks can aid preparedness to natural disasters such as tsunamis in vulnerable regions. People who participate in social activities are more likely to plan and prepare for future disasters, including having a family emergency plan or disaster supplies kit.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 8, 2015

Shining a stochastic spotlight on Ebola

Engineers at Lehigh University are developing stochastic models to study the dynamics of Ebola virus infection in bats and its potential human transmission. The goal is to quantify the risk associated with the virus's spread and provide a basis for resource allocation and epidemic response strategies.

SourceLehigh University·DateJun 23, 2015
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

BMJ provides resources to support disaster relief efforts in Nepal

BMJ has opened its online resources, including The BMJ and BMJ Journals, decision support tools from BMJ Best Practice, and learning resources from BMJ Learning, to support doctors and healthcare institutions in Nepal. Free access is available for three months for anyone with an IP range originating in Nepal.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateMay 1, 2015

Study reveals sexual appeal of war heroes

A study published in Evolution and Human Behaviour found that women are more attracted to war heroes than regular soldiers or men who display heroic traits in other fields. The researchers also discovered that heroism in combat increases women's levels of sexual attraction towards male soldiers, but not in disaster zones.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalEvolution and Human Behavior·DateMar 11, 2015
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.

Half the survivors in 1 Japanese town have PTSD symptoms

A new study conducted by Brigham Young University professor Niwako Yamawaki found that nearly half of Hirono's survivors experienced clinically concerning PTSD symptoms. Eating right and exercising regularly were identified as key factors in fostering resilience among disaster survivors.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalPsychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences·DateMar 5, 2014

Gauging what it takes to heal a disaster-ravaged forest

A research team from Michigan State University studied the recovery of forests and bamboo groves in the Wolong Nature Reserve, China, after a devastating earthquake. They found that many areas were on the road to recovery, with replanting efforts helping in areas with poor soil conditions.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalForest Ecology and Management·DateFeb 24, 2014

Why are some children more resilient to post-traumatic stress?

A study comparing post-traumatic stress symptoms among children exposed to disasters and identifying risk factors for resiliency. The article discusses the importance of recognizing similarities and differences in how children and adults react to traumatic events.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Child and Adolescent Psychopharmacology·DateFeb 20, 2014
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.

Walking in their shoes: How fundraisers can boost donations

Researchers found that individuals who feel connected to a group are more likely to donate, even if it's for a different group. The study suggests that nonprofits can improve fundraising efforts by targeting specific demographics and avoiding comparisons between donors and recipients.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateFeb 11, 2014

Natural disasters of the past can help solve future problems

Researchers are using past natural disasters to develop models of potential future events, highlighting the importance of local community resilience. By analyzing geological and social parameters, scientists aim to create a more robust framework for disaster preparedness.

SourceAarhus University·JournalNatural Hazards and Earth System Sciences·DateNov 13, 2013
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.

Disaster relief donations track number of people killed, not number of survivors

Researchers found that donors prioritize fatalities over those affected when deciding how much to donate. However, a simple change in terminology can reverse this bias, prioritizing the number of homeless individuals. By diverting attention from fatalities to survivors, aid can be allocated more effectively.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateSep 23, 2013

Why the Super Bowl's location matters: Local ties still bind corporations: Study on philanthropy

A new study by the University of Toronto's Rotman School of Management found that corporate philanthropy increases during mega-events like the Super Bowl and decreases during severe natural disasters. This suggests that local communities still matter to corporations, even in a globalized age.

SourceUniversity of Toronto, Rotman School of Management·JournalAdministrative Science Quarterly·DateMay 22, 2013

How should geophysics contribute to disaster planning?

The article highlights the importance of geophysics in disaster planning, emphasizing the need for interdisciplinary collaboration to address natural hazards. Brian McAdoo's presentation compares death counts and economic fallout from similar magnitude earthquakes in areas with different levels of economic development, showing that dea...

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·DateMay 16, 2013

New insights into managing our water resources

Researchers have discovered that some water catchments exhibit a finite resilience to wet and dry years, switching between two steady states. This finding allows for better prioritization of investment and informed decision-making in water resourcing.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalWater Resources Research·DateJan 29, 2013
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.