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Why do some environmental shocks lead to disaster while others don't?

Researchers analyzed over 150 past crises, revealing that not every ecological shock or climatic anomaly leads to collapse or severe crisis. Societies' cultural, political, and economic dynamics interact with environmental forces to shape their responses.

SourceComplexity Science Hub·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 18, 2023

56 million Americans unknowingly exposed to secondhand smoke

A recent study found that 51% of people in the US have been recently exposed to secondhand tobacco smoke, but less than half reported being exposed. The researchers detected nicotine levels in the blood of those who were exposed, highlighting a significant gap in awareness about secondhand smoke.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalNicotine & Tobacco Research·TypeSurvey·DateSep 18, 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.

Texas A&M School of Public Health researcher investigates race and public assistance policy opinions

A new study by Dr. Simon Haeder explores the relationship between race and public opinion on administrative burdens in Medicaid and SNAP policies. The research found that higher levels of racial resentment were associated with favoring increased burdens, while empathy and ability to manage tasks influenced opinions.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalJournal of Health Politics Policy and Law·DateSep 17, 2023

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
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.

DNA breakthrough detects genetic diversity of invasive fish

Researchers detected genetic diversity and population structure of invasive round goby fish using environmental DNA (eDNA) sampling. This technique helps trace the source of new invasive populations and prevent further invasion, enabling natural resource managers to take targeted action.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 13, 2023

Large variation in how many relatives Swedes have

A new study by Stockholm University reveals the number of relatives Swedes have varies greatly, with most living relatives found between ages 30 and 40. The study used Sweden's unique population registers to create kinship networks, showing that younger people have more relatives in their ascending line.

SourceStockholm University·JournalDemography·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 12, 2023

Large amounts of sedentary time linked with higher risk of dementia in older adults, study shows

A new study published in JAMA found that adults over 60 who spend more than 10 hours a day engaging in sedentary behaviors like sitting are at increased risk of developing dementia. The study used wearable accelerometers to track physical activity and found that the total time spent sedentary each day was a significant predictor of dem...

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalJAMA·TypeObservational study·DateSep 12, 2023

Contributions to white matter injury in Alzheimer’s disease

Researchers highlight microvascular contributions to white matter injury in Alzheimer's disease, sparking calls for exploration of connections between AD, WM injury and cerebral small vessel disease. The study emphasizes the critical need to define mechanisms and diagnostic features of mixed vascular and AD neuropathological change.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateSep 12, 2023
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.

Exiting the pandemic together: achieving global immunity and equity

A new editorial paper explores the effectiveness of the third dose booster vaccine against SARS-CoV-2 in immunocompromised individuals. Researchers found that while the vaccine improves vaccine effectiveness across various measures, its benefits are not as significant for patients with cancer.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncoscience·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateSep 8, 2023

Sahmyook University researchers uncover molecular pathways underlying depression

A study published in Brain, Behavior, and Immunity found that inflammation-related genes play a significant role in depression. The researchers discovered correlations between immune-related genes, DNA methylation patterns, and brain structure abnormalities in patients with major depressive disorder.

SourceSahmyook University·JournalBrain Behavior and Immunity·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 7, 2023

Most non-English speakers in the U.S. are turned away before their first cancer visit according to new research in JNCCN

A new study from the University of Michigan found significant language-based disparities in patients' access to cancer care. English-speaking callers were able to get information on next steps 94% of the time, while Spanish-speakers and Mandarin-speakers were only connected at 38% and 28% respectively.

SourceNational Comprehensive Cancer Network·JournalJournal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network·DateSep 6, 2023

Water-quality risks linked more to social factors than money

A recent study found that social factors are a stronger influence on water-quality violations than median household income. The study's social vulnerability index captured three times as much of the population affected by water-quality issues as median income did.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateSep 5, 2023

New study uncovers the Causes of the Qing Dynasty's Collapse

A new study by the Complexity Science Hub has pinpointed three main drivers of the Qing Dynasty's collapse: population explosion, elite competition, and financial burden. These factors culminated in a series of uprisings that led to the dynasty's downfall despite being wealthier than modern-day China.

SourceComplexity Science Hub·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 4, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Early ancestral bottleneck could've spelled the end for modern humans

A recent study published in Science suggests that an early ancestral bottleneck may have pushed modern humans to the brink of extinction. The research, conducted by scientists at the Chinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters, analyzed ancient DNA samples and found evidence of a significant population decline around 200,000 years ago.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalScience·DateAug 31, 2023

Pandemic pushed half-million kids into grandparents’ homes

A study led by Washington State University researcher found that half a million children lived in 'doubled-up' households with grandparents during the pandemic. These arrangements were mainly driven by economic and instrumental needs, such as childcare and elder care, outweighing health concerns.

SourceWashington State University·JournalDemography·DateAug 30, 2023

Families with a team mindset strengthened their bonds during COVID-19 pandemic

A new study found that families with a cohesive, family-oriented mindset were more likely to improve their well-being during the pandemic. Individuals in these families reported higher levels of personal fulfillment and lower stress and loneliness compared to those with weaker family dynamics.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Marriage and Family·TypeSurvey·DateAug 25, 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.

‘Pregaming’ linked to risky substance use among college students

A study by Texas A&M University found that pregaming is linked to unsafe alcohol use and other risky behaviors among college students. Pregaming was associated with a two-day increase in alcohol use frequency and was found to be around 2.5 times more likely to lead to cannabis or other drug use.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalSubstance Use & Misuse·DateAug 25, 2023

Augusta University researcher calls for modernizing the UN's traditional approach to population replacement measurement

Augusta University researcher Arni S.R. Srinivasa Rao calls for updating the UN's traditional approach to measuring population replacement levels. He proposes a new formula that allows for more timely and accurate measurement, which is essential for understanding emerging global demographics.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalMathematical Biosciences·DateAug 25, 2023
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.

Education levels and child age shaped caregivers’ concerns amid Covid-19 pandemic, NIH study suggests

A recent NIH study found that caregivers' education levels and child ages played significant roles in determining their primary sources of stress during the COVID-19 pandemic. Caregivers with lower education levels reported more financial concerns, while those with higher education levels were more worried about social distancing.

SourceDuke Clinical Research Institute·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 23, 2023

Good dogs: owners of recently-adopted shelter dogs tend to report high satisfaction with their new pet despite also reporting increases in problem behavior over time

Despite increased problem behaviors like stranger aggression and training problems, shelter dog owners reported high satisfaction rates of 94% due to improved behavior over time. Owners also noted a decrease in separation-related behaviors as their dogs became more assured of return home.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeSurvey·DateAug 16, 2023
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.

Socioeconomic adversity and weight gain during the pandemic

Researchers found significant increases in body mass index among US youth during the COVID-19 pandemic, with effects most pronounced in low-income youth. The study highlights how preexisting social inequalities were exacerbated by the pandemic, leading to greater weight gain among vulnerable populations.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateAug 14, 2023

Study exposes plight of deported noncitizen veterans

A study by UC Riverside-led researchers reveals that deportation causes social, economic, and political insecurities among noncitizen veterans. The study found that many veterans struggle to maintain access to necessities, experience chronic stress, and face poor health outcomes after deportation. The researchers emphasize the need for...

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalPLOS Global Public Health·TypeSurvey·DateAug 2, 2023

Immigrant nurses in long-term care facilities often have more “human capital” compared to American-born nurses, MU researcher finds

A new study by MU researcher Roy Thompson found that immigrant nurses in long-term care facilities often have more 'human capital' than their American-born counterparts, including language skills and additional certifications. This diversity can improve patient health outcomes and create a more equitable workforce.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of Nursing Regulation·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 1, 2023
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.

For people with diabetes, healthy eating is not enough if their diet is rich in ultra-processed foods

A study by I.R.C.C.S. Neuromed found that high consumption of ultra-processed foods significantly increases mortality risk among people with type 2 diabetes. Even those following a Mediterranean diet are at increased risk if ultra-processed foods account for a large share of their diet.

SourceIstituto Neurologico Mediterraneo Neuromed I.R.C.C.S.·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·TypeObservational study·DateJul 26, 2023

Researchers examine the impact of loan repayment program enrollment on physician workforce equity and patient care access

Researchers found that service-based loan repayment programs like NHSC promote more diverse scope of practice, rural practice, and serving medically underserved populations. In contrast, PSLF may be less effective in supporting underrepresented backgrounds and directing physicians to these areas.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateJul 25, 2023
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Older adults who identify as sexual and gender minorities experience disproportionate age-related decline

A new study by Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center reveals that older adults who belong to sexual and gender minorities experience higher rates of frailty, starting at younger ages, compared to non-OSGM participants. The research highlights the need for early geriatric assessment among OSGM and potential targets to mitigate frailty.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalJournal of Gerontology·DateJul 25, 2023

July/August 2023 Annals of Family Medicine Tip Sheet

A Canadian study found that patients were very satisfied with care from their family physicians (90%) and allied health teams (89%), comparable to traditional in-person models. Another pilot program successfully engaged hard-to-reach adolescents in preventive care, demonstrating a 40% increase in show rates for well visits.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateJul 25, 2023

Children and adolescents in food-insecure homes had more mental health visits

A new study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal found that children and adolescents living in food-insecure households had a 55% higher frequency of physician visits for mental health reasons. The research also revealed a 74% higher prevalence of past-year acute care visits for mental or substance use disorders.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 24, 2023
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.

Redlining linked to higher heart failure risk among Black adults in US

A new study published in Circulation journal found that Black adults living in areas historically affected by discriminatory housing practices had a higher heart failure risk. The analysis included over 2.3 million adults from 2014-2019 and mapped historical redlining maps onto modern day maps of US zip codes.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalCirculation·DateJul 17, 2023
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.

Nearly two thirds of youth would stop vaping without added sweet flavors, menthol, synthetic cooling agents

A new study from Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center found that restricting sweet flavorings and cooling agents in e-cigarettes could significantly reduce youth vaping rates. Nearly 39% of survey respondents would quit using their e-cigarettes if tobacco-flavored e-liquids were the only options available.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·DateJul 10, 2023

Study results show lead hunting ammunition hinders bald eagle recovery, resiliency

A new study published in Wildlife Society Bulletin reveals that lead exposure from hunting ammunition is sickening and killing bald eagles, making them more susceptible to other dangers. The research, funded by Morris Animal Foundation, used innovative modeling tools to demonstrate the impact of lead poisoning on eagle populations.

SourceMorris Animal Foundation·JournalWildlife Society Bulletin·DateJul 6, 2023

New study out of York U answers the question: Is anyone truly healthy?

A recent study published in PLOS One found that most people have something wrong with them, but the relationship between risk factors and mortality changes over time. The researchers discovered paradoxical relationships, such as increased mortality risks associated with lung cancer despite decreased funding for research.

SourceYork University·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 5, 2023

No increase in mortality for most overweight people, study finds

A large US study of over half a million adults found that BMI was not significantly linked to increased all-cause mortality in most cases. The study suggests that further research is needed to fully understand the relationship between BMI and mortality risk, particularly among younger adults.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateJul 5, 2023

Global efforts to reduce infectious diseases must extend beyond early childhood

A new study found that three million children and adolescents die from infectious diseases every year, with the greatest impact on low- and middle-income countries. The research highlights the need for policy change and funding to address this unmet health need among older children and adolescents.

SourceMurdoch Childrens Research Institute·JournalThe Lancet·TypeContent analysis·DateJul 4, 2023
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.

State medical cannabis laws not associated with reduced use of opioid or nonopioid pain treatments

A study of commercially insured adults with chronic noncancer pain found that state medical cannabis laws did not lead to a reduction in the use of opioid or nonopioid pain treatments. The researchers also suggested slow implementation and reluctance among healthcare leaders may have contributed to these findings.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 3, 2023

New study: Mental illness obstructs cancer screening

A new study from Aarhus University found that people with mental health issues are less likely to accept offers of colorectal cancer screening. The research showed that those with severe mental disorders had a 13.8 percentage point lower participation rate compared to those without mental illness.

SourceAarhus University·JournalThe Lancet Psychiatry·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 29, 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.

Dolphin ages, pod health revealed with drone photographs

A team of researchers developed a new technique using drone photographs to estimate the age-structure of free-ranging dolphin groups, aiding in timely conservation efforts. By analyzing the distance between a dolphin's blowhole and dorsal fin, they can infer its total body length and age.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalEcology and Evolution·TypeObservational study·DateJun 28, 2023

New nationwide modeling points to widespread racial disparities in urban heat stress

A new study finds that the average Black urban resident is exposed to disproportionately higher heat stress due to warmer air temperatures, while white residents experience cooler temperatures. The research highlights income- and race-based disparities in urban heat stress across US cities.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalOne Earth·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 23, 2023

Chinese Medical Journal Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine study uncovers trends in the global burden of tracheal, bronchus, and lung cancer

The study found a decreasing trend in the global TBL cancer burden from 1990 to 2019, but regional variations persisted. The burden was highest in upper-middle-income countries and lowest in high-income countries.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalChinese Medical Journal - Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 22, 2023

Research pilot sets the stage for better, more equitable aortic stenosis care

The study analyzed data from 15 hospitals nationwide and found that nearly half of patients with symptomatic severe AS received transcatheter aortic valve replacement, while about 36% did not receive any treatment. The program aims to address healthcare disparities in AS care by identifying best practices for treating the disease.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateJun 20, 2023
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.

Fatal overdoses increase after police seize drugs, study finds

A new study found that police drug seizures are associated with increased fatal overdoses in the surrounding geographic area, suggesting that efforts to disrupt drug markets can have unintended effects. The research highlights the need for comprehensive policing strategies that consider all outcomes, including harm reduction approaches.

SourceBrown University·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 12, 2023

One in 15 in changed reported sexual identity over a six-year period, new UK survey study finds

A new UK survey study led by Lancaster University found that 6.6% of the population aged 16 and over changed their reported sexual identity over a six-year period. The research challenges the assumption that sexual identity mobility declines with age, revealing that it is as prevalent among over-65s as young people.

SourceLancaster University·JournalDemography·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 12, 2023
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.