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European union should adopt a research-based approach to ensure the quality and safety of substances of human origin

The European Union is urged to adopt a balanced, empirically sound approach to regulate substances of human origin. Properly devised rewards increase supply without compromising quality and safety. The EU's new regulation should prioritize self-sufficiency while ensuring safe and accessible supplies for all in need.

SourceUniversity of Toronto, Rotman School of Management·JournalBMJ Global Health·TypeLiterature review·DateApr 22, 2024
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.

Decreases in social disparities in air pollution during lockdown suggest the need for sustainable policies

A study found significant decreases in average nitrogen dioxide concentrations and social inequities in California's air pollution during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown. Non-urban areas saw a 17% decrease, while urban areas experienced a 50% reduction, primarily due to reduced traffic.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAtmospheric Environment·DateMar 25, 2024

All countries’ agri-environmental policies at a glance

A database containing over 6,000 agri-environmental policies from 200 countries has been published by the University of Bonn and ETH Zurich researchers. The study found that richer countries tend to implement more eco-friendly measures, while national policies play a significant role in reducing soil erosion.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalNature Food·DateMar 22, 2024

Adolescent Δ8-THC and marijuana use in the US

A nationally representative US survey found appreciable Δ8-THC use prevalence among adolescents. States without marijuana legalization or existing Δ8-THC regulations have higher prevalence rates, highlighting the need for surveillance and policy efforts.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateMar 12, 2024

Keep the change: Scientists analyze attitudes of shop assistants

Researchers from SWPS University studied 216 grocery shops in Poland and found that few customers increased the likelihood of shop assistants keeping change. Sellers were more likely to give correct change to shoppers of the same gender as themselves, while wearing a mask or visor had no impact on honesty.

SourceSWPS University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 8, 2024
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.

WVU research shows government regulation of jobs hinders workers and consumers

West Virginia University researchers introduced a new database showing occupational licensing's impact on the workforce, highlighting how licenses increase cost and time to enter professions, affecting consumers. The database encompasses 50 jobs across all 50 states, providing insights into licensing standards, fees, and requirements.

SourceWest Virginia University·JournalJournal of Entrepreneurship and Public Policy·DateMar 4, 2024

Black carbon sensor could fill massive monitoring gaps

A new portable sensor has been found to accurately measure black carbon concentrations as well as a regulatory standard sensor, filling a massive gap in air quality monitoring. The sensor's portability and affordability make it suitable for remote or inaccessible sites, allowing for more comprehensive data collection.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalSensors·DateFeb 26, 2024

Many hookah manufacturers have not complied with FDA-mandated nicotine warning labels

A recent study found that only half of hookah packages included the required nicotine warnings, two years after federal regulation was implemented. The study led by Boston University School of Public Health researcher Dr. Jennifer Ross highlights the importance of warning labels in communicating health risks to consumers.

SourceBoston University School of Public Health·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 7, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Paper calls for patient-first regulation of AI in healthcare

A new study published in JAMA highlights the need for federal regulations that prioritize patient outcomes when it comes to AI-powered tools in healthcare. The researchers argue that AI products in healthcare do not universally undergo evaluation for potential harm or benefit to patients, and propose a revision to the White House Execu...

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJAMA·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJan 31, 2024

A large percentage of European plastic sent to Vietnam ends up in nature

Research by Utrecht University reveals that a significant portion of European plastic sent to Vietnam is not recyclable and ends up in nature. The study highlights the need for a systemic approach to tackle human and environmental harm throughout the value chain.

SourceUtrecht University·JournalCircular Economy and Sustainability·TypeCase study·DateJan 24, 2024

Live animal transport regulations not ‘fit for purpose’, major international study finds

The study's findings highlight serious failures in animal welfare protection during transportation, with all countries falling short of guaranteeing adequate protection. The researchers propose updating the regulations to address major risk factors such as excessively long journeys and hot weather, drawing key future directions for new...

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateJan 23, 2024
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.

More is not always better

A new framework demonstrates that proportionately more multi-homing consumers lead to significant efficiency gains when integrating two business platforms. However, this trend also creates higher barriers to entry for new platform firms and may require policy guidance to mitigate potential harms of platform mergers.

SourceKyoto University·JournalJournal of Industrial Economics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 22, 2023

Microplastics come from everywhere – yes, from sex toys too

Researchers have discovered that sex toys can release microplastic particles, with anal toys and beads emitting the highest amounts. The study highlights the need for informed consumer decisions to mitigate potential health risks associated with phthalates, endocrine disruptors present in all tested sex toys.

SourceSociety for Risk Analysis·JournalRisk Analysis·DateNov 14, 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.

Social media giants send mixed signals on muscle-building supplements content

A new study found that social media platforms restrict user-generated content and advertising related to illegal muscle-building drugs but offer few restrictions on legal dietary supplements. This has raised concerns about the potential negative effects of these products on young people's health and behavior.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalSubstance Use & Misuse·DateNov 6, 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.

Most websites do not publish privacy policies, researchers say

A study by Penn State researchers found that only one-third of online organizations publish their privacy policies, highlighting the need for improvement. The researchers used a large-scale investigation to analyze the availability of privacy policies on millions of websites, revealing significant challenges in compliance.

SourcePenn State·DateOct 30, 2023

Online games use dark designs to collect player data

A study by Aalto University reveals that online games employ deceptive data collection practices, often hiding information behind complex legal jargon. Players are often unaware of the risks and may feel compelled to conceal their identities or personal data to maintain privacy.

SourceAalto University·JournalProceedings of the ACM on Human-Computer Interaction·DateOct 27, 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.

Nail salon and other small beauty service workers face significant daily health challenges

Asian female immigrants working in the US beauty service industry face numerous workplace health challenges. Researchers suggest that outreach and education at individual, interpersonal, community, and societal levels can address these issues, including cultural competency, better wages, training, and paid time off.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalJournal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene·DateOct 19, 2023

‘Roving sentinels’ discover new air pollution sources

A study using Google Street View cars found hyper-local air pollution hotspots in the Salt Lake Valley, revealing spatial variability and environmental justice issues. The research identified pollution emission sources off-road from traffic and industrial areas.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalAtmospheric Environment·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 11, 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.

Hospital regulations spur an increase in breastfeeding, but at what cost?

State hospital regulations encouraging breastfeeding increased breastfeeding rates by 4% and up to 7%, but also reduced mothers' labor force participation by 3%. The policies have been shown to benefit women with higher education and incomes, but may not necessarily provide a health benefit due to confounding factors.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalAmerican Economic Journal Applied Economics·DateOct 3, 2023

Nicotine e-cigarettes, prescription drugs and dual nicotine replacement therapy identified as most effective stop-smoking aids

A comprehensive global analysis found that these stop-smoking aids are nearly twice as effective as single forms of NRT. Dual forms of NRT, such as combining a patch with gum or a lozenge, were found to be nearly as effective as nicotine e-cigarettes and prescription medications.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 12, 2023

Studies highlight new approaches to addressing climate change

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University and others have developed new analytical frameworks to measure climate change impacts and adaptation. Their studies suggest that correcting market failures can incidentally induce climate adaptation, with significant welfare benefits.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalJournal of Environmental Economics and Management·DateSep 11, 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.

‘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

Effectiveness of video gameplay restrictions questioned in new study

A new study has questioned the effectiveness of China's legal restrictions on young people's video game time, analyzing over 7 billion hours of playtime data from tens of thousands of games. The research found no evidence of a decrease in heavy gaming after the restrictions were implemented.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateAug 10, 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.

Widespread illegal trade of hazardous chemicals

A new study reveals that nearly half of traded hazardous chemicals are imported without consent, posing a significant threat to human health and the environment. The report highlights the need for strengthened national and international action to address global trade of highly hazardous chemicals.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 11, 2023

Is our phosphorus use sustainable? Most stakeholders doubt it

A recent study finds that most phosphorus stakeholders have significant doubts about the sustainability of existing systems, citing concerns over environmental impact. To advance phosphorus sustainability, stakeholders emphasize the need for new regulations, improved management practices, and innovative technologies.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalEnvironment Systems & Decisions·TypeSurvey·DateJul 5, 2023

Getting adults on board with messy nature play

Researchers found that while parents and educators recognize the benefits of nature play, they struggle with certain aspects, particularly risk. A key move will be to boost educators' knowledge about nature-based learning to promote enabling factors.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeCase study·DateJun 29, 2023

Unsafe feeding methods spiked during infant formula shortage

During the 2022 infant formula shortage, nearly half of parents used unsafe feeding practices, including watering down formula and sharing human milk. The study emphasizes the need for policy changes to provide families with access to safe alternatives and supports.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalBMC Pediatrics·TypeSurvey·DateJun 27, 2023

Lessons from ‘The Blob’ will help us manage fisheries during future marine heatwaves

A new study examines the impact of marine heatwaves on fisheries and ecosystems, providing insights for managing these disruptions. The research highlights both winners and losers in the face of warming waters, emphasizing the need for adaptable management strategies to mitigate losses and capitalize on unexpected gains.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalFish and Fisheries·DateJun 5, 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.

Makers of PFAS ‘forever chemicals’ covered up the dangers

A new analysis of secret industry documents reveals that the chemical industry knew about the dangers of PFAS but failed to disclose this information to the public and regulators. The study examines how the industry used tactics to delay public awareness and regulations, with devastating consequences for human health and the environment.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalAnnals of Global Health·DateJun 1, 2023

Investigation reveals “shocking” epidemic of sexual assault in the NHS

A joint investigation reveals that NHS trusts are failing to protect staff and patients from sexual assault, with over 35,000 cases recorded between 2017-2022. The findings show that most incidents involve patients abusing staff or other patients, highlighting a disturbing trend in the healthcare system.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 23, 2023

Stop eradication of small mammals to protect vital ecosystems, say scientists

Current measures to protect grasslands in the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau are damaging the ecosystem and should be stopped. Small burrowing mammals, like the plateau pika and zokor, play crucial ecological roles in maintaining ecosystem health and biodiversity.

SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMay 22, 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.

98% of TikTok videos promote vaping, putting teens at risk: Study

A Curtin University research found that 98% of TikTok videos promoting vaping pose a risk to teens. The study highlights the need for stricter regulations and enforcement on social media platforms.

SourceCurtin University·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·TypeContent analysis·DateMay 11, 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.

Mass General Brigham expert calls for reforms to address the overdose crisis

A Mass General Brigham expert calls for additional measures to expand access to lifesaving buprenorphine treatment and harm-reduction services. The federal government's elimination of the X waiver is necessary but not sufficient to achieve overdose-prevention goals, according to the authors.

SourceMass General Brigham·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMay 1, 2023

What makes “junk food” junk?

A new analysis of three decades of US food policies defines junk food based on a combination of product categories, processing, nutrients, and place. The study identifies common criteria used in existing policies, including exemptions for staple foods and favoring products with lower levels of processing and additives.

SourceNew York University·JournalMilbank Quarterly·DateApr 27, 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.

PPPL hosts workshop on fusion energy and nonproliferation

A two-day workshop hosted by PPPL discussed the risks and benefits of fusion energy, including concerns about nuclear proliferation and energy justice. Experts emphasized the need for open discussion and regulation to ensure safe and equitable deployment of fusion power.

SourceDOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory·DateApr 13, 2023

Free trade deal is a major threat to UK public health, warn experts

Experts warn that the UK's free trade deal with CPTPP will make it harder to regulate tobacco and alcohol, ban products containing harmful pesticides, and enact policies to cut consumption of unhealthy food and drinks. A health impact assessment is needed to evaluate the potential benefits and harms of this deal.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·TypeContent analysis·DateApr 12, 2023

To protect kids online, researchers call for cross-disciplinary collaboration

A team of researchers emphasizes the need for science-backed policies that consider children's developmental vulnerabilities in the digital world. They propose a multidisciplinary approach to develop regulations that address timely questions about digital platforms and their impact on children.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalScience·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMar 30, 2023

Hispanic, Black, and low-income adults are less likely to replace smoking with vaping

A new study found that Hispanic, Black, and low-socioeconomic status smokers are less likely to use e-cigarettes as a quit-smoking tool and more likely to believe e-cigarettes pose greater harm than cigarettes. This perception may prevent e-cigarette uptake among these populations, exacerbating racial and health disparities in smoking.

SourceBoston University School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateMar 27, 2023