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Rural-urban divide compounds racial disparities in COVID-19 deaths, study finds

A recent study from Oregon State University found that racial and ethnic minority groups living in rural areas are at a higher risk of dying from COVID-19 than those in urban areas. The researchers suggest allocating additional resources to rural areas with high minority populations to address these disparities.

SourceOregon State University·JournalJournal of Racial and Ethnic Health Disparities·DateApr 15, 2021

SMART study finds ridesharing intensifies urban road congestion

The study found that ridesharing companies increased road congestion in the US, reducing public transport ridership by nearly 9%. Easy access to ridesharing discouraged commuters from using greener alternatives.

SourceSingapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART)·JournalNature Sustainability·DateMar 31, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Processed meat linked to higher risk of mortality and cardiovascular disease

A multinational study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that consuming moderate amounts of unprocessed meat is okay, but processed meats should be avoided. Higher processed meat intake was associated with higher risks of total mortality and major cardiovascular disease.

SourceAmerican Society for Nutrition·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateMar 31, 2021

Urban squirrels, how much are we disturbing you?

Research finds that urban squirrels' success rates increase with repeated solving of a novel food-extraction task, suggesting adaptability to urban stressors. The study also reveals that direct human disturbance is a major stressor, while green coverage and squirrel population size have less impact on problem-solving performance.

SourceHokkaido University·DateMar 30, 2021

Rural US has more heart failure deaths than urban areas

A new Northwestern Medicine study reveals significant disparities in heart failure mortality rates between rural and urban areas, with rural areas experiencing higher death rates. The research also highlights race disparities among Black adults under 65 years old.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 26, 2021
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.

Swiss statistical systems enhanced by big data

Researchers at EPFL's HERUS lab used anonymized data from La Mobilière to develop a spatial regression model predicting 12 socio-economic indicators in six categories. The study aimed to show the potential of insurers' datasets beyond marketing purposes, guiding policymakers and government statistical offices.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 3, 2021

Heart failure-related death rates higher in rural versus urban US counties

Nationwide analysis reveals adults in rural counties experience higher heart failure-related death rates compared to urban counterparts, with greater increases for younger adults. Socioeconomic factors and clinical risk factors contribute to the urban-rural divide, prompting a need for targeted health and economic policy efforts.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 3, 2021

Eating human food could mean trouble for urban coyotes, study shows

A new study by University of Alberta researchers reveals that urban coyotes consuming human food have more human-like gut bacteria, leading to poor health outcomes such as lower body fat and stressed immune systems. The study suggests limiting access to protein-poor human food could be an effective solution.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 25, 2021
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Transforming urban systems: Toward sustainability

The paper synthesizes five leading frameworks of urban ecology to advance global urban science and achieve sustainability goals. By integrating knowledge from different disciplines, the framework offers practical tools to assess sustainability planning and improve human-environmental wellbeing.

SourceCary Institute of Ecosystem Studies·Journalnpj Urban Sustainability·DateFeb 23, 2021

Poor swelter as urban areas of US Southwest get hotter

A new study found that urban areas in the US Southwest are experiencing extreme heat disparities, with lower socio-economic groups facing significantly higher temperatures. The study revealed that California's urban regions had the largest temperature differences between wealthier and poorer neighborhoods.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateFeb 18, 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.

Happiness really does come for free

A study found that communities with low monetization have remarkably high levels of happiness, comparable to Scandinavian countries. The researchers interviewed 678 people and found that social and economic factors play a bigger role in higher monetized sites.

SourceMcGill University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 8, 2021

79% decrease in primary care visits, 56-fold increase in virtual care: COVID-19 pandemic

Researchers found a significant shift towards virtual care during the COVID-19 pandemic, with 71.1% of all visits being virtual, compared to 1.2% before the pandemic. The study also revealed that older and sicker Ontarians maintained higher levels of care, despite overall decreases in primary care visits.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateFeb 8, 2021
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.

NTU study finds Singapore public less keen on drone use in residential areas than industrial zones

A study by NTU Singapore found that the Singapore public is more accepting of drones in industrial zones than residential areas. The research team identified fears and concerns, such as privacy loss and misuse of drones, as key factors influencing public acceptance. To improve acceptance levels, policymakers and regulators should adapt...

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalTechnology in Society·DateJan 28, 2021

When it comes to eyewitness accounts of earthquake shaking, representation matters

A new study highlights the impact of socioeconomic factors on eyewitness accounts of earthquake shaking reported through online systems like DYFI. The research found complex trends in California and India, with differences in self-reported reports based on neighborhood income levels and literacy rates.

SourceSeismological Society of America·JournalSeismological Research Letters·DateJan 21, 2021

Race in clinician documentation

Researchers analyzed medical records for racial bias in clinician documentation, finding evidence of disparities based on race and ethnicity. The study highlights the need for improved training and education to address racial biases in healthcare.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateJan 11, 2021
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.

New nature lover? It's a COVID-19 side effect

A study by researchers at the University of Vermont found that 26% of people visiting parks during early COVID-19 months had rarely visited nature in the previous year. Park users reported increased importance for these areas and access to them, with 81% saying access was very important.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 17, 2020
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.

Less light, more trees assist migrating birds

A study found that urban tree canopy cover and reduced light pollution during migration seasons contribute to higher species richness. Conversely, higher levels of artificial light at night were associated with lower species counts, particularly during winter and summer.

SourceCornell University·JournalEnvironmental Pollution·DateDec 9, 2020

New research questions myth of the elderly widower: of course grandpa cooks

A recent University of Copenhagen study finds that male seniors do cook and enjoy it, often making elaborate meals, while widowed women view cooking as a chore. This research adds nuance to the picture of older generations living alone, suggesting changing gender roles are not just applicable to younger generations.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalAgeing and Society·DateDec 7, 2020

Urban heat and mortality: who are the most vulnerable?

A recent study analyzing daily temperatures and mortality in Turin, Italy, found that women with low educational levels are most at risk of heat-related mortality. The research also reveals that individuals living alone, regardless of gender, are more susceptible to heat stress than those who share a home.

SourceCMCC Foundation - Euro-Mediterranean Center on Climate Change·JournalEnvironmental Health·DateDec 7, 2020

Risk of death high among those with alcohol-related visits to ED: CMAJ study

A Canadian study found that people with frequent alcohol-related emergency department visits have a high mortality rate, especially among young adults, urban dwellers, and those from low-income neighborhoods. The risk of death doubles for those with five or more visits.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateNov 23, 2020
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.

'Oasis effect' in urban parks could contribute to greenhouse gas emissions, ASU study finds

Researchers at Arizona State University found that urban parks experience a significant increase in evaporative losses during the night due to the oasis effect, leading to higher carbon dioxide emissions. This can have important implications for water conservation and greenhouse gas emission management in desert cities like Phoenix.

SourceArizona State University·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateNov 18, 2020

Study: Jumps in elementary school violence linked to increased student transfers

A new study finds that student exposure to violent crime in urban elementary schools is linked to higher transfer rates, particularly for less advantaged students. The study suggests that creating a safe school environment could reduce violence-related transfers and increase stability in enrollment patterns.

SourceAmerican Educational Research Association·JournalAmerican Educational Research Journal·DateNov 17, 2020
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.

Calls to city 311 lines can predict opioid overdose hotspots

Researchers found that calls about code violations, public health issues, and street lighting were the best indicators of opioid use in Columbus communities. The study suggests that data from 311 calls can be an effective opioid overdose surveillance indicator to direct outreach and resources to where they are needed.

SourceOhio State University·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 11, 2020

Urban gulls adapt foraging schedule to human activity patterns

A study by the University of Bristol found that urban gulls adjust their foraging patterns to coincide with human activity, such as school breaks and waste centre opening hours. This adaptability helps them thrive in cities by maximizing energy intake from fluctuating food sources.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalIbis·DateNov 10, 2020

Rural areas have fewer mental health services for young people

A recent study found that very rural areas in the US have significantly fewer mental health services for young people, with only 3.9% of rural ZIP Codes having facilities that serve youth. This lack of access exacerbates the already high suicide rate among rural youth, highlighting the need for increased resources.

SourceWashington State University·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateNov 2, 2020
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.

Air pollution, green space and built environment characteristics may influence body mass index durin

A large longitudinal study found that exposure to air pollution during early childhood may lead to an increase in body mass index (BMI), while living in areas with greater green space and a more favorable built environment mix may be associated with a decrease in BMI. The study analyzed data from nearly 80,000 children and suggested th...

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalEnvironmental Pollution·DateOct 26, 2020

Floating gardens: More than just a pretty place

A study presented at the 2020 GSA Annual Meeting reveals that floating gardens can have a positive impact on water quality. The research found modest but definitive improvement in nutrient levels, including a 1% decrease in nitrate levels downstream of the garden.

SourceGeological Society of America·DateOct 26, 2020
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.

Online horse race bettors are less keen to gamble after a losing day

A study by the University of Eastern Finland found that online horse race bettors tend to stay away from betting for a longer time after a losing day. The study analyzed data from over 9,000 individuals in Finland and found no significant differences in behavior between men and women.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalJournal of Gambling Studies·DateOct 14, 2020

Mental illness, mental health care use among police officers

A survey study in Texas found that a significant portion of police officers experience mental illness and utilize mental health care services. The study highlights the need for improved mental health support within law enforcement agencies.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateOct 7, 2020

Mutations that affect ageing - more common than we thought?

A new study published in BMC Biology found that nearly all of the mutations tested had a negative effect on fertility early in life and accelerated reproductive ageing. This suggests that mutations contributing to ageing may be more common than previously thought.

SourceLinköping University·JournalBMC Biology·DateSep 29, 2020
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.

City-dwelling mosquito and malaria risk in Africa

A study suggests that urban mosquito species Anopheles stephensi could spread to dozens of cities across Africa, putting millions at higher risk of contracting malaria. The authors used location data and spatial models to predict the spread of this Asian mosquito species in Africa, identifying 44 highly suitable locations.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 14, 2020
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.

Gulls pay attention to human eyes

Researchers found that herring gulls pay attention to human gaze direction, reacting faster and more aggressively when watched than when ignored. The study also confirms the bolder nature of urban gulls compared to rural ones.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalAnimal Behaviour·DateSep 7, 2020

Gunshot injuries in California drop, but percentage of firearm death goes up

A UC Davis Health study found that nonfatal firearm injuries in California decreased by 38% over an 11-year period, primarily due to a drop in firearm assaults. However, the lethality of those and other firearm injuries increased, with a higher proportion of self-inflicted injuries being deadlier.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateAug 26, 2020

'Biggest holes in the system'

A new study by Washington State University scientist Raven Weaver found that older adults living in very rural settings are less likely to receive available services compared to those in mostly rural areas. The study highlights the most vulnerable groups within the rural classification, emphasizing the need for proactive support.

SourceWashington State University·JournalThe International Journal of Aging and Human Development·DateAug 24, 2020