Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Life expectancy varies by up to 18 years in King County, Washington

A new study finds that life expectancy varies by up to 18 years across King County, Washington, with residents in affluent areas living significantly longer than those in poorer neighborhoods. The study provides detailed estimates of death rates by cause, year, and sex among the county's nearly 400 census tracts.

SourceInstitute for Health Metrics and Evaluation·JournalThe Lancet Public Health·DateSep 5, 2017

Large-scale study of genetic data shows humans still evolving

Researchers analyzed the genomes of 210,000 people to find a drop in some genetic mutations linked to Alzheimer's disease and heavy smoking in those who lived longer. Additionally, sets of mutations predisposing people to heart disease and obesity appeared less often in longer-lived individuals.

SourceColumbia University·JournalPLOS Biology·DateSep 5, 2017
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.

Discrimination leads older Chinese-Americans to consider suicide at high rates

A new University of Michigan study found that elderly Chinese-Americans who experience racial discrimination are twice as likely to consider suicide. The study, which examined 3,157 Chicago-area Chinese-American adults aged 60 and older, also highlights the impact of age, loneliness, pain, and depression on suicidal thoughts.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalAmerican Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry·DateAug 31, 2017

Fungal spore 'death clouds' key in gypsy moth fight

Researchers discovered a method to track gypsy moth fungus, understanding its range and predicting damage. The study suggests that understanding the distances these killer spores travel could help scientists correlate the fungus' range with weather patterns.

SourceCornell University·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateAug 30, 2017

Nursing home use and costs in United States

According to an 18-year analysis, 56% of individuals aged 57-61 are likely to spend time in a nursing home, with high out-of-pocket costs for some. Lifetime spending averages $7,300, but some face expenses over $47,000.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 28, 2017

Study finds romance and affection top most popular sexual behaviors

A new US nationally representative study found that romance and affection are the most appealing and common sexual behaviors, contrary to stereotypes. Researchers discovered a wide range of diverse behaviors, with men and women engaging in various romantic and affectionate acts.

SourceIndiana University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 28, 2017

NIST study suggests frailty makes elderly more likely to die in home fires

A new NIST study reveals that frailty, particularly among the elderly, significantly increases the risk of death from home fires. The research suggests that communities should evaluate and address home fire risks based on age demographics to maximize effectiveness in preventing fire deaths and injuries.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalInjury Prevention·DateAug 22, 2017
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.

Smokers 20 percent more likely to quit when cigarettes cost $1 more

A Drexel University study found that older smokers are 20% more likely to quit when cigarette prices increase by $1. The study also showed a 3% overall reduction in smoking risk and a 7% reduction in risk for heavy smokers. Raising cigarette prices appears to be an effective strategy for encouraging smoking cessation across all ages.

SourceDrexel University·JournalEpidemiology·DateAug 18, 2017

Increased support could reduce attrition rates among general surgery residents

A recent study published in JAMA Surgery found that the attrition rate among general surgery residents was lower than previously thought, with only 8.8% leaving their training programs compared to 20%. The study also identified a significant difference in program directors' attitudes and support for struggling residents between high- a...

SourceLA BioMed·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateAug 16, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Increases in alcohol use, especially among women, other groups

Alcohol use disorder increased in the US population from 65.4% to 72.7%, with significant growth among women, older adults, racial/ethnic minorities, and those with lower educational levels and family income. High-risk drinking also rose by 29.9% over two decades.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateAug 9, 2017

Older adults with HIV: An overlooked population?

A growing population of older adults with HIV is being overlooked due to implicit ageism, which contributes to poor mental and physical health outcomes. The combination of stigma, social isolation, and negative expectations about aging can lead to depression, loneliness, and chronic disease.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·DateAug 4, 2017
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.

Lizards demonstrate rapid evolution in the face of extreme cold

A study found that green anole lizards in the south developed greater resistance to cold temperatures after a severe winter, similar to their northern counterparts. The population showed significant genetic divergence in response to the extreme weather event.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateAug 3, 2017

Whole genome sequencing identifies cause of zoonotic epidemic

A team of scientists used whole genome sequencing to identify the cause of a respiratory disease that affected almost 77,000 native Icelandic horses in 2010. The researchers found that the gram-positive bacterium Streptococcus zooepidemicus was the culprit behind the outbreak.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmBio·DateAug 1, 2017

Study calls for review into census capture of 'mixed' populations

The study analyzed three current methods of mixed population capture and found serious quality problems with all three approaches. It suggests continuing 'multi-ticking' in the US and Canada with clearer instructions for respondents as a potential alternative to 'exact combinations' method.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalEthnic and Racial Studies·DateJul 26, 2017

Americans are quitting smoking in higher numbers; study suggests e-cigarettes help

A study published by the University of California - San Diego found that e-cigarette use increased among smokers attempting to quit, leading to a higher overall quitting rate. The study suggests that e-cigarettes play a role as a cessation tool and may have contributed to an increase in smoking cessation rates in the US.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalThe BMJ·DateJul 26, 2017
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Tai chi may help prevent falls in older and at-risk adults

A study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that tai chi significantly reduced the rate of falls by 43% compared to other interventions. Tai chi also showed promise in reducing injurious falls risk, with a 50% reduction over short-term follow-up.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateJul 24, 2017

ASHG honors Kári Stefánsson with William Allan Award

Kári Stefánsson to receive William Allan Award for his pioneering work on Icelandic population genetics and its impact on public education about genetics. His research has led to important insights into various diseases, including type 2 diabetes, prostate cancer, and schizophrenia.

SourceAmerican Society of Human Genetics·DateJul 12, 2017
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.

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.

Study of US seniors strengthens link between air pollution and premature death

A new Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health study found that long-term exposure to certain air pollutants increases the risk of premature death among US seniors. The research suggests lowering levels of airborne fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and ozone could save up to 12,000 lives annually.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJun 28, 2017

Population health resource to give US cities access to key data

The City Health Dashboard is a nationwide expansion of an innovative health data visualization tool, enabling hundreds of US cities to accurately identify their most pressing health needs. The dashboard provides 26 key measures of health and drivers of health status at the neighborhood level.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·DateJun 27, 2017

More than half of all opioid prescriptions go to people with mental illness

A recent study from the University of Michigan and Dartmouth found that over half of opioid prescriptions are written for adults with mood disorders such as depression and anxiety. The research highlights the concerning trend of vulnerable patients with mental illness being prescribed opioids.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalThe Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine·DateJun 27, 2017

Rising seas could result in 2 billion refugees by 2100

By 2100, climate change could lead to the displacement of 2 billion people worldwide due to rising ocean levels. The study's author, Charles Geisler, warns that coastal climate refugees will face significant barriers to entry when migrating to higher ground.

SourceCornell University·JournalLand Use Policy·DateJun 26, 2017
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Young American Latinos report the most discrimination

A recent study by Penn State researchers found that young, U.S.-born Latino males report the highest levels of discrimination in both interpersonal and institutional contexts. The study, published in the Social Science Research journal, suggests that this group's higher expectations for inclusion and awareness of unfair treatment contr...

SourcePenn State·JournalSocial Science Research·DateJun 26, 2017

More democracy through mathematics

Researchers at TUM have developed a mathematical method to calculate optimally sized voting districts, reducing the need for controversial redistricting processes. The methodology achieves optimal solutions with deviations below 15% from the average size of electoral districts, making it applicable to many countries.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalEuropean Journal of Operational Research·DateJun 23, 2017

Crowdsourced data may inaccurately represent some population groups

A UCSF-led study found that crowdsourced data may not be representative of certain populations, such as older adults and racial/ethnic minorities. The study suggests that proactive efforts are needed to promote inclusion of underrepresented groups in projects using crowdsourced recruitment and data collection.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateJun 22, 2017

An end to population aging in China, Germany, USA

A new study predicts population aging will peak before the end of the century in China and Germany, with the US experiencing little aging. Traditional projections underestimate the impact of increasing life expectancy on age structures.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 21, 2017
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.

GW researcher finds centenarians have lower incidence of chronic illness

A study by GW researcher Raya Elfadel Kheirbek found that centenarians have a lower incidence of chronic illness compared to those in their 80s and 90s. The researchers identified lifestyle factors, such as not smoking or drinking, and discipline as key contributors to this phenomenon.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateJun 7, 2017
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.

Ancient genetic markers in sockeye salmon can help manage healthier fish stocks

A recent study from the University of British Columbia Okanagan campus has identified new genetic markers in sockeye salmon that can help improve management of fish populations. These markers allow researchers to distinguish between different variants of sockeye salmon, enabling precise identification and monitoring of population numbers.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 25, 2017
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.

Population only part of tornado casualty story

A study by Florida State University researchers found that doubling the population under a tornado's path leads to only a 21% increase in casualties, while a doubling of energy dispersed by the tornado leads to a 33% increase. Stronger storms tend to pass through areas with lower population density, and climate change could impact futu...

SourceFlorida State University·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateMay 24, 2017

Comparison of antibiotic treatments for cellulitis

A recent study published in JAMA compared the effectiveness of antibiotics with and without MRSA activity for treating cellulitis. The results showed that while certain groups may benefit from these regimens, further research is needed to confirm the findings. The study also highlights limitations in the current trial design.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateMay 23, 2017

Parents support policies to limit teens' access to indoor tanning

A study by Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute found that 65% of parents supported age-based restrictions on indoor tanning for adolescents. Parents who perceived the harms of indoor tanning were more likely to support bans, highlighting the importance of public health efforts to reduce adolescents' use.

SourceHarvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute·DateMay 15, 2017
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.

Movement of early humans into the Indian subcontinent

Researchers modeled prehistoric human migration using a diffusion equation, accounting for geological data and habitability factors. They found that groups merged in well-localized regions within the subcontinent, with genetic data agreeing with their predictions.

SourceTata Institute of Fundamental Research·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 11, 2017

Research reveals globe-trotting history of sika deer

A new study by University of Delaware researchers explores the history of sika deer in Dorchester County, Maryland, revealing a complex relationship with native white-tailed deer. The study suggests that sika deer may be outcompeting white-tails for resources, causing ecological concerns and challenging management strategies.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalBiological Invasions·DateMay 9, 2017
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.

Type 2 diabetes genetic mapping identifies new 'loci'

Researchers have identified 111 new chromosome locations associated with type 2 diabetes susceptibility in a large-scale study. The new loci were found to regulate the expression of at least 266 genes that neighbour the disease sites.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateMay 4, 2017

Smoke-free policies help decrease smoking rates for LGBT population

Researchers found that LGBT individuals living in smoke-free communities are more likely to want to quit smoking than those in non-smoke-free areas. The study, published in Nicotine and Tobacco Research, also reveals a higher prevalence of smoking among the LGBT population compared to heterosexual adults.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalNicotine & Tobacco Research·DateMay 1, 2017

Afghanistan and Iraq veterans' opioid use similar to that of civilians

A new study published in Pain found that opioid use among Operation Enduring Freedom/Operation Iraqi Freedom/Operation New Dawn veterans is comparable to the general US population. Chronic pain management with opioids was strongly associated with PTSD, major depressive disorder, tobacco use, and rural residence.

SourceRTI International·JournalPain·DateApr 25, 2017

Systematic review confirms longstanding caffeine intake recommendations

A new systematic review confirms that moderate to high levels of caffeine intake (up to 400 mg/day) are not associated with adverse health effects in healthy adults. The review also highlights the need for further research on sensitive populations, such as pregnant women and children.

SourceFoodMinds LLC·JournalFood and Chemical Toxicology·DateApr 21, 2017
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.

New study reveals highest risk profiles for opioid overdose

A comprehensive analysis reveals individuals with depression or substance use disorder are at highest risk of serious opioid overdose. The study highlights the importance of a personalized approach to opioid prescribing, considering factors such as mental health disorders, medication interactions, and opioid-specific characteristics.

SourceThe Hodges Partnership·JournalPain Medicine·DateApr 13, 2017

Restrictions on trans-fatty acid consumption associated with decrease in hospitalization for heart attack

A study published in JAMA Cardiology found that New York counties with trans-fatty acid (TFA) restrictions on eateries experienced a significant decrease in hospitalization rates for heart attacks and strokes compared to counties without restrictions. The study, which included data from 2002 to 2013, suggests that TFA restrictions may ...

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateApr 12, 2017

Geography and culture may shape Latin American and Caribbean maize

A recent study published in PLOS ONE analyzed 194 native Latin American maize populations, revealing three distinct geographic groups of maize in Mexico and four groups in South America and the Caribbean. The findings suggest that genetic variation in maize populations may reflect human migration patterns and agricultural development.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 12, 2017
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.