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Becoming human: An ancient genome perspective

The study of ancient genomes has shed light on the evolution of modern humans, revealing genetic changes that distinguish us from Neanderthals and Denisovans. These findings suggest that population-level advantages, such as increased connectivity and access to resources, played a significant role in shaping human migration patterns.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalCell·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 29, 2024

Advancing climate change research and policy demands knowledge from Indigenous Peoples and local communities, new study reveals

A new study highlights the crucial role of Indigenous Peoples' knowledge in advancing climate change research and policy. The project LICCI, led by Victoria Reyes-García, engaged over 5,000 individuals across 48 diverse cultures and nationalities to document climate change impacts as perceived by local communities.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 27, 2024

It’s true, happiness doesn’t cost much

A recent study by ICTA-UAB found that many societies with very low monetary income have remarkably high levels of life satisfaction, comparable to those in wealthy countries. The average life satisfaction score across the studied small-scale societies was 6.8 on a scale of 0-10.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 5, 2024
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.

Suicide and race: Uncovering patterns underlying increasing suicide rates in the USA

Researchers found that the life expectancy of AIAN individuals is seven years less than that of White populations, with rapid increases in suicide mortality rates between 1999 and 2020. The study suggests historical trauma and ongoing inequality contribute to high suicide rates among AIAN people.

SourceWaseda University·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 25, 2024

Acute pediatric critical illness definition enables global research

A new, universal definition of acute pediatric critical illness has been reached by consensus among researchers and clinicians from 40 countries. The definition focuses on the patient's status rather than resource availability, enabling global research and potentially leading to improvements in patient outcomes.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalThe Lancet Global Health·DateJan 8, 2024
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.

UC Davis Health creates road map to diversify health care workforce

UC Davis Health has developed a holistic outreach and local recruitment plan that has proven effective in increasing workforce diversity. The institution's Anchor Institution Mission (AIM) initiative targets outreach to local Sacramento neighborhoods of concern to reduce disparities in the long term.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalNEJM Catalyst·TypeCase study·DateJan 5, 2024

Move over Blitzen: geese outpace reindeer impacts on Arctic ecosystems

A new study from Utah State University reveals that geese have a greater impact on Arctic ecosystems than previously thought, while reindeer only exert a smaller influence. The research found that goose grazing in concentrated patches leads to significant reductions in plant biomass and soil compaction.

SourceS.J. & Jessie E. Quinney College of Natural Resources, Utah State University·JournalJournal of Ecology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 14, 2023

New research sheds light on Bantu-speaking populations' expansion in Africa

A comprehensive genetic analysis of modern and ancient individuals suggests that Bantu-speaking populations originated in western Africa and expanded south and east in several waves. The study identifies key crossroads of interaction between different routes of expansion in Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

SourceUppsala University·JournalNature·DateNov 29, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Killing remains a threat to Bornean orangutans

Research reveals that the illegal killing of orangutans on Borneo remains a significant threat to the species, with 30% of villages reporting killings in the last 5-10 years. Conservation efforts may not be effectively preventing killing and addressing human-orangutan conflict is crucial.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalConservation Science and Practice·TypeSurvey·DateOct 10, 2023
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.

Syphilis transmission networks and antimicrobial resistance in England uncovered using genomics

Researchers use genomic surveillance to identify distinct sexual networks for syphilis transmission in England, highlighting the presence of drug resistance. The study reveals information beyond standard epidemiological surveillance data, aiding public health strategies to break transmission chains.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalThe Lancet Microbe·TypeObservational study·DateSep 15, 2023

Cars, chlamydia and canines are biggest koala killers

A study analyzing data from KoalaBASE found that car strikes, dog attacks, and chlamydia-related illnesses are responsible for a significant number of koala deaths in South East Queensland. The research suggests that interventions such as road signs, overpasses, and information campaigns can help reduce these fatalities.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 14, 2023

How local communities depend on the ivory palm tree in coastal Ecuador

The study found that local communities in coastal Ecuador depend less on tagua trees today than their grandparents did, but still use them for cultural and supporting services. The research highlights the importance of conservation efforts to protect these ecosystem services.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalAgricultural and Resource Economics Review·TypeSurvey·DateAug 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.

Bronze Age family systems deciphered: Mainz palaeogeneticists analyse a 3,800-year-old extended family

A groundbreaking study has unraveled the secrets of a 3,800-year-old extended family from a Bronze Age necropolis in the Russian steppe. The research reveals that most women buried in the kurgan were immigrants, while their sisters found new homes elsewhere, highlighting the importance of female marriage mobility in prehistoric societies.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeCase study·DateAug 22, 2023

Rare long-distance dispersal events help maintain genetic structure of mangroves

Researchers found that occasional long-distance dispersal events between North and South Brazil allow red mangrove trees to exchange genetic material, maintaining their unique populations. Mangroves play a vital role in coastal ecology and carbon storage, making conservation efforts crucial.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalMolecular Ecology Resources·DateAug 9, 2023

Health experts urge clinicians to ‘remain vigilant’ about malaria cases in new commentary

The first locally acquired malaria cases in the US in 20 years have been reported, highlighting the need for clinicians to be vigilant about the disease's symptoms. Malaria thrives in warmer climates and can cause serious illness and death if not treated, emphasizing the importance of rapid diagnosis and treatment.

SourceBoston University School of Public Health·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateAug 8, 2023
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.

Developer dollars not enough to save species

Research found that financial payments by developers to compensate for environmental consequences are insufficient to achieve intended outcomes. Only 0.7 of 13.4 hectares of impacts on koala habitat have been offset through financial payments since 2018, raising concerns about the future of this endangered species.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalPeople and Nature·DateJul 9, 2023

The power of Indigenous voices and data supporting the green transition

The new policy paper emphasizes the importance of Indigenous knowledge and data in subnational decision-making for a sustainable green transition. It identifies key strategies to enhance inclusion, such as awareness-raising among policymakers, increasing Indigenous representation, and facilitating knowledge exchange.

SourceGRID-Arendal·TypeSurvey·DateJun 29, 2023
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Researchers’ warning on childhood vaccination target

A third of under-fives attending Paediatric Emergency Departments have unmet vaccination need, with tetanus and MMR vaccination coverage levels below target. Researchers call for catch-up campaigns to reach this vulnerable group.

SourceLancaster University·JournalBMJ Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 27, 2023

When local economic inequality is high, the rich tend to be more generous

A recent study published in PLOS ONE found that individuals with higher incomes tend to be more generous when living in areas with high levels of economic inequality. In contrast, the lowest-income groups show less generosity in more unequal areas. The researchers used local data from the US and UK to examine this relationship.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateJun 14, 2023

Research puts lens on a new vision for land use decision making

Researchers have proposed a four-lens framework for better and more transparent decisions about land use, balancing society's demands with environmental protection. The framework involves gathering evidence from diverse stakeholders and encourages transparency in decision-making processes.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalPeople and Nature·DateJun 8, 2023

Millions of U.S. households may struggle to afford basic water services

A study analyzing the affordability of water services for 28.3 million people in the US found that 15% of households, or one in seven, face financial hardship in paying for access to water and wastewater services. The researchers suggest that solutions require comprehensive strategies at local, state, and federal levels.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Water·TypeObservational study·DateMay 10, 2023
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Environmental impact reports hugely underestimate consequences for wildlife

A study from the University of East Anglia found that environmental impact assessments often fail to account for species movement between sites, leading to underestimated impacts on wildlife. The research highlights a planned airport development in Portugal that could affect over 10 times the number of Black-tailed Godwits estimated by...

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalAnimal Conservation·DateApr 6, 2023

New Monterey Bay Aquarium study shares the intimate details of sea otter surrogacy; affirms its effectiveness to rehabilitate orphaned pups

A new study by Monterey Bay Aquarium reveals the key components contributing to successful releases of orphaned southern sea otters back into the wild. The research emphasizes the strong maternal drive of surrogate female sea otters in nurturing and caring for pups, resulting in a three-quarters success rate.

SourceMonterey Bay Aquarium·JournalBiological Conservation·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 9, 2023

Ethnic minority parents want customized advice, research shows

A recent study by Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University found that ethnic minority parents in Inner Mongolia prefer evidence-based knowledge on family education tailored to their local environment and culture. They sought information on how geographical features like the geomagnetic field influence children's growth and well-being.

SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·TypeObservational study·DateMar 6, 2023

A new model of palliative care to empower communities in Africa

A culturally appropriate model of end-of-life care is being developed in Ghana to address the scarcity of palliative care in low-resource communities. COMPASS Ghana aims to provide universal end-of-life care by the end of the decade, utilizing a compassionate community approach that involves patients and caregivers in care provision.

SourceLancaster University·JournalBMJ Supportive & Palliative Care·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 21, 2023
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.

Study of US hydroelectric dams shows benefits to local economies decline with improvements in transmission capabilities

A study by Carnegie Mellon University researcher Edson Severnini found that large-scale hydroelectric dams constructed in the US before 1950 spurred short- and long-term growth, while those built after 1950 had modest effects on local economies. The decline is attributed to advancements in high-tension transmission lines.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalThe Economic Journal·DateFeb 16, 2023

Black South Africans report higher life satisfaction and are at less risk for depression post-migration, MU study finds

A new study found Black South Africans who migrated to find work reported better emotional well-being and were at lower risk for depression after the move. The research may help policymakers tailor mental health resources to underprivileged migrants and those seeking economic mobility.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalSSM - Mental Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 3, 2023

Study links adoption of electric vehicles with less air pollution and improved health

Researchers found that electric car adoption in California was associated with real-world reductions in air pollution and asthma-related emergency room visits. The study also highlighted an 'adoption gap' between low-resource zip codes, pointing to opportunities for environmental justice.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalScience of The Total Environment·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 2, 2023

Guiding conservation with local touch

A group of biologists is exploring the potential of seed banks, frozen zoos, gene editing, and assisted gene flow to create second chances for species affected by climate change. By understanding local adaptation strategies, conservationists can design more effective conservation actions.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalBioScience·DateDec 5, 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.

Ancient DNA from Medieval Germany tells origin story of Ashkenazi Jews

The study found that the Erfurt Jewish community was more genetically diverse than modern-day Ashkenazi Jews, with at least two distinct groups. The research team discovered that the founder event, which makes all Ashkenazi Jews today descendants of a small population, happened before the 14th century.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalCell·TypeImaging analysis·DateNov 30, 2022

Genes and languages not always together

A global analysis of matches and mismatches between human genetic and linguistic histories found that populations often shift to neighboring languages despite genetic differences. This suggests that giving up one's language isn't difficult, but preserving original linguistic identity is rare despite genetic assimilation.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 21, 2022
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.

Native predatory fish help control invasive species in Hawaiian fishpond

Research found that native predatory fish like jacks and barracuda feed on Australian mullet, an invasive species introduced to Oahu waters. This shift in diet helps control the invasive mullet population, which competes with native fish for resources.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalAquaculture Fish and Fisheries·TypeObservational study·DateOct 17, 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.

Greenland’s Indigenous population favours extracting and exporting sand from melting ice sheet

A national survey of 1000 adults in Greenland found that 3 out of 4 support extracting and exporting sand from the melting ice sheet, with most preferring local involvement. The study highlights a rare example of an Arctic Indigenous population wanting to be involved in decision-making about adapting to accelerated Arctic changes.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeSurvey·DateAug 18, 2022

Incidence of COVID-19 among people experiencing homelessness

A recent study found that people experiencing homelessness had a lower annual incidence rate of COVID-19 than the general population at state and local levels. The national estimate of the true incidence rate remains unknown due to under- or overestimation.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateAug 18, 2022

New principles for biological fieldwork will build equity for researchers and local communities

A new paper outlines principles for reducing power imbalances in biological fieldwork, including procedures for permitting and licensing developed at the University of Kansas. The guidelines aim to ensure safety, legal, and ethical conduct, prioritizing communication and transparency in fieldwork planning.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 17, 2022

South Asian Communities in GTA disproportionately hit by COVID-19

A study found that South Asian communities in the GTA suffered disproportionately from COVID-19, with a higher seropositivity rate due to sociodemographic factors. The region's South Asian community was identified as a hotspot before local vaccine rollout, highlighting inequities in healthcare access.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalCMAJ Open·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJul 5, 2022

Population bottlenecks that reduced genetic diversity were common throughout human history

A new analysis of ancient and contemporary genomes shows that more than half of historical groups experienced founder events, leading to reduced genetic diversity. This research has significant implications for scientists studying human genetic variation and the discovery of disease-causing mutations.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalPLOS Genetics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 23, 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.

When politics is local in the Middle East

A study by MIT researchers found that sectarian identity in the Muslim world is often intertwined with local politics and shaped by social interactions. Domestic economic and political factors influence variation in sectarianism more than transnational matters do.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateJun 2, 2022

Major study to examine beavers’ Arctic impact

A major new study is investigating the effects of beavers on the Arctic landscape, other animals, and local Indigenous communities. The project aims to understand the complex interlinkages between ecological and sociological changes as beaver numbers increase.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·DateMay 12, 2022

Jaws hold crucial knowledge on the fate of sharks

A study of historical tiger shark jaws reveals a local southeastern Australian population has been extirpated due to shark control programs, emphasizing the need for regional management and conservation. Genetic diversity drives future evolution, and its loss can lead to reduced adaptability to environmental changes.

SourceTechnical University of Denmark·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 4, 2022

Ancient skeletons reveal the history of worm parasites in Britain

Research reveals high rates of parasitic worm infections in ancient British populations, particularly during the Roman and Medieval periods. The study sheds light on the lives and habits of past populations, providing insights into public health measures.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·TypeSurvey·DateApr 21, 2022

Local communities around the globe claim the disappearance of wild edible plants

Local communities worldwide report a significant decrease in wild edible plant and mushroom abundance, impacting their nutrition and food security. The study highlights the importance of considering local geographic and socio-cultural contexts to develop strategies for counteracting these changes.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalGlobal Food Security·TypeSystematic review·DateFeb 22, 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.

Bronze Age women altered genetic landscape of Orkney, study finds

Ancient DNA study reveals Bronze Age women replaced local population in Orkney, contrary to historical assumptions about European expansion trends. Genetic analysis suggests a complex and varied process of negotiation between indigenous males and newcomers from the south over many generations.

SourceUniversity of Huddersfield·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeContent analysis·DateFeb 7, 2022

West African nations need to ramp up COVID-19 vaccination 10-fold

Despite low vaccine uptake, West Africa needs to boost vaccination efforts to achieve population-level immunity. To reach 50%, 60%, and 70% coverage after 9, 12, and 18 months, vaccination speeds must increase by 4, 7, and 10 times the current pace.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Global Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 14, 2021

Ecological knowledge of local populations allows better control of Amazonian wildlife

A recent study published in Methods in Ecology and Evolution found that local environmental knowledge is a valuable tool for conservation in the Amazon, comparable to other scientific methods. Local ecological knowledge proved to be more accurate than 10 years of conventional scientific monitoring for animal abundance in the Amazon.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalMethods in Ecology and Evolution·TypeSurvey·DateDec 6, 2021