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Gardening can cultivate better mental health

A study by University of Florida researchers found that gardening lowered stress, anxiety, and depression in healthy women attending twice-weekly gardening classes. The participants experienced similar improvements in mental health as those in art-making sessions, with gardeners reporting slightly less anxiety.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJul 6, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Dog-assisted interventions lead to lower stress levels in children

A new study published in PLOS ONE found that dog-assisted interventions can significantly reduce stress levels in elementary school children, both with and without special needs. The research used salivary cortisol levels to track the effects of dog interactions on stress levels, revealing a decrease in cortisol levels after dog sessions.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 15, 2022

The mindful way to manage stress among elite athletes

A new study from the University of South Australia found that dispositional mindfulness can significantly reduce and protect elite athletes from stress. Athletes who demonstrated greater mindfulness had lower levels of stress, both immediately after a COVID-19-related shutdown and at the end of their competitive season.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalPerceptual and Motor Skills·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 1, 2022

Community-engagement preventive intervention promotes mental health of Bhutanese families in Western Massachusetts

A peer-led, family-centered preventive intervention is being tested to reduce stress, anxiety, and depressive symptoms among Bhutanese immigrants. The program, developed by Kalpana Poudel-Tandukar, uses problem management plus (PMP) and addresses multiple stressors, resulting in improved coping skills and social networking.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalBMJ Open·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 1, 2022

New studies shed light on election-related stress

Researchers found that anticipating future stress related to elections can affect people's emotional well-being before anything has happened. Education was shown to help protect individuals against these stresses, even for those actively engaged in the political process.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalCurrent Psychology·TypeObservational study·DateMay 31, 2022
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.

Eye-movement tracking glasses are used to evaluate mental stress in first naturalistic study of critical care nurses

A naturalistic study using eye-tracking technology found that intensive care unit nurses experience a higher level of mental workload, especially during the start of shifts, with shorter fixation and more sporadic gaze behavior in stressed nurses.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalHuman Factors The Journal of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society·DateMay 31, 2022

Project RED reduces hospital readmissions for patients with depressive symptoms

The study found that the adapted version of the Re-Engineered Discharge (RED) Program, RED for Depression (RED-D), reduced hospital readmissions among patients with depressive symptoms by 48% and 70% at 30- and 90-day marks. The program included post-discharge depression treatment and transition support.

SourceBoston Medical Center·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateMay 25, 2022

Study finds deep divide on mental health impact of COVID-19

A recent Dartmouth study using mobile technology compares emotional well-being of college students before and during the pandemic, finding significant differences in mental health and behavior. The research identifies two groups with differing experiences, with one group showing poorer mental health, anxiety, and stress.

SourceDartmouth College·DateMay 4, 2022
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.

Where the mind is without fear: Scientists discover mechanism behind the chemically induced suppression of fearful memories

Researchers at Tokyo University of Science identify brain regions and signaling pathways involved in fear extinction via delta receptor activation. The study suggests a potential therapeutic agent for post-traumatic stress disorders by suppressing fearful memories.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalFrontiers in Behavioral Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 25, 2022

Study shows memory is formed through rewiring of global network among pre-existing local neuronal ensembles

Researchers found that neuronal ensembles in the amygdala and prefrontal cortex existed before memory acquisition, but developed through experience in the hippocampus. The study also revealed that ensemble synchrony across brain regions was particularly strong during transient bursts of activity, suggesting a role in memory consolidation.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 14, 2022

Integrating behavioral health in community-based primary care improves access and treatment for racially and ethnically diverse children

A new study found that integrating behavioral health into pediatric primary care at federally qualified health centers increases access, timeliness of care, and diagnostic rates of ADHD among diverse children. The model resulted in higher follow-up rates with behavioral health clinicians and reduced polypharmacy.

SourceBoston Medical Center·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateMar 29, 2022

Mindfulness alleviates post-gun violence trauma and depression

A pilot study by UC San Diego School of Medicine found that eight weeks of mindfulness training significantly reduced symptoms of trauma and depression in individuals grieving from gun violence. Participants showed notable improvements in life satisfaction, with benefits lasting after the program concluded.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalMindfulness·DateMar 22, 2022
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.

Are e-cigarettes a “gateway” to cannabis use among adolescents? It depends on mental health status

A new study found that e-cigarette use significantly increases adolescents' risk of cannabis use, especially among those with externalizing mental health problems. However, for those with internalizing mental health issues, the relationship is reversed, and they are less likely to begin using cannabis.

SourceGeorgia State University·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 17, 2022

Stress reduction may play role in atrial fibrillation management

Research suggests stress plays a bidirectional role in AFib, both increasing episodes and contributing to mental health issues. Stress reduction strategies, such as mindfulness-based stress reduction and anxiolytic therapy, may improve AFib symptoms and quality of life.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJACC Clinical Electrophysiology·TypeLiterature review·DateFeb 23, 2022
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.

Self-​motivation helped pro­fes­sional mu­si­cians main­tain their prac­tice dur­ing the COVID-​19 pan­demic

A study found that self-motivated musicians were more resilient to pandemic threats and maintained their practicing routines, while externally motivated musicians experienced a reduction in dedicated practice time. The research suggests that professional support can help musicians develop coping strategies and redirect focus towards in...

SourceUniversity of the Arts Helsinki·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 7, 2022

Social isolation and loneliness increase heart disease risk in senior women

A new study reveals that social isolation and loneliness can increase cardiovascular disease risk by 8% and 5% respectively. Women who experience high levels of both social isolation and loneliness have a 13-27% increased risk of heart disease, compared to those with low levels.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 2, 2022

Another pandemic challenge for nurses: Sleep problems

A recent study found that more than half of nurses experienced difficulty sleeping during the first six months of the COVID-19 pandemic, with reduced sleep increasing odds of anxiety and depression. The researchers urge employers to address work stress and provide support for mental healthcare.

SourceNew York University·JournalJournal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine·DateJan 27, 2022
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.

Stress, by itself, can lead to excessive drinking in women but not men

A study by Arizona State University found that stress alone can lead to excessive drinking in women, while men only drink more when they've already consumed alcohol. The research highlights the importance of studying sex differences in alcohol consumption and challenges existing models developed primarily for men.

SourceArizona State University·JournalPsychology of Addictive Behaviors·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 13, 2021

1 in 10 cardiology trainee doctors in UK say they have been bullied

A survey of UK cardiology trainees reveals that bullying is a pervasive problem, with 1 in 10 reporting being subjected to abusive behavior. Women and those who qualified outside the UK are disproportionately affected, highlighting a need for targeted measures to address workplace bullying in medicine.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalHeart·TypeObservational study·DateDec 6, 2021

Study finds parental stress as a contributing factor linking maternal depression to child anxiety and depressive symptoms

A secondary analysis found a bi-directional relationship between mother's mental health symptoms and child's mental health symptoms, with parental stress as the mediating factor. The study suggests that lowering parental stress is vital for families where mothers and children exhibit symptoms of anxiety and depression.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalJournal of Affective Disorders·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 1, 2021
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.

Study: COVID tech took a toll on work-from-home moms

A new UNLV research study found that remote work technology exacerbated stress and mental health issues among working mothers with children. The study suggests that asynchronous communication methods like email may be more effective in alleviating stress, while synchronous forms like video chats and texting can hinder multitasking.

SourceUniversity of Nevada, Las Vegas·JournalCommunication Reports·TypeSurvey·DateNov 19, 2021

Apps On Your Phone Can Improve Caregiver Mental Health

A new Rutgers study finds that mindfulness therapy through mobile app Mindfulness Coach reduces symptoms of anxiety, stress, and depression in caregivers. The study suggests that mHealth interventions can positively impact future mental health treatment options for patients.

SourceRutgers University·JournalAging & Mental Health·TypeSurvey·DateNov 10, 2021

Is waking up to smoke a drag on people’s ability to quit smoking?

A recent study published in Behavioral Sleep Medicine found that people who wake up, smoke, and return to sleep are more likely driven by stress than nicotine addiction. To help these smokers quit, researchers recommend addressing their psychological distress and developing treatments that go beyond nicotine dependence.

SourcePenn State·JournalBehavioral Sleep Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateNov 3, 2021

Lack of sleep affecting students’ mental health especially women, says study

A new study published in Annals of Human Biology found that over two-thirds of university students experience poor sleep quality, which is linked to increased risk of depression and high stress levels. Women are more likely to suffer from inadequate sleep habits and excessive daytime sleepiness.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalAnnals of Human Biology·DateNov 2, 2021
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Slow and steady wilting makes for better beans…soybeans that is

A study by University of Tennessee researchers found two soybean genotypes, 'Ellis' and 'USG Allen', that outperformed others under drought conditions. These varieties showed improved yields and reduced wilting, making them suitable for water-limited areas.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture·JournalAgronomy·DateNov 1, 2021

Coping with COVID-19 stress easier with a dose of humor

Research by the American Psychological Association found that looking at memes about COVID-19 can help people cope with stress and anxiety. The study, published in Psychology of Popular Media, suggests that viewing just three memes can increase positive emotions and decrease stress levels.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalPsychology of Popular Media·DateOct 18, 2021

During the COVID-19 pandemic, nearly 70% percent of surveyed healthcare workers in Ghana and Kenya met criteria for stress and burnout, which are associated with low job satisfaction

A study found that nearly 70% of surveyed healthcare workers in Ghana and Kenya experienced stress and burnout during the COVID-19 pandemic. The researchers suggest that perceived preparedness plays a crucial role in mitigating these negative effects on job satisfaction.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Global Public Health·DateOct 13, 2021

Study gauges healthcare worker stress during pandemic

A new study found that healthcare workers, especially those under age 50 and women, experienced exceptionally high levels of stress during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. The researchers analyzed data from an international questionnaire and discovered that paramedical staff had even higher stress levels than medical doctors.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateOct 6, 2021

What our wandering thoughts can teach us about mental health

Researchers analyzed idle thoughts for 10 minutes to capture patterns of thinking, revealing a link between ruminative thinking and depression. Participants who scored high on a rumination questionnaire experienced negative thoughts that lasted longer than positive thoughts.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalScientific Reports·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 1, 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.

Increased risk of heart disease may be linked to your stress hormone sensitivity

Research suggests that people sensitive to stress hormones are at greater risk of developing cardiovascular disease, with markers indicating increased risk of stroke and heart attack. A novel proteomic signature may help identify these individuals and inform stress management strategies.

SourceEuropean Society for Paediatric Endocrinology·JournalHormone Research in Paediatrics·TypeObservational study·DateSep 25, 2021

How the pandemic has triggered a cycle of mental health struggles and physical inactivity

A large study reveals the pandemic exacerbates mental health challenges and hinders physical activity levels, particularly among lower-income households and those living in urban areas. The survey found that higher household income was associated with better mental health status and maintained physical activity levels.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalPreventive Medicine Reports·TypeSurvey·DateSep 20, 2021

New study uncovers how a series of sleep loss impacts mental and physical wellbeing

A new study published in Annals of Behavioral Medicine found that just three nights of sleep loss can cause significant deterioration in mental and physical health. After a day or two, symptoms peak, and the body becomes relatively adapted to repeated sleep loss, but this changes on the sixth night when physical symptoms reach their wo...

SourceUniversity of South Florida·JournalAnnals of Behavioral Medicine·DateJul 6, 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.

Petting therapy dogs enhances thinking skills of stressed college students

Research at Washington State University found that petting therapy dogs enhanced executive functioning in stressed-out college students, particularly those at risk of mental health issues. The study, published in AERA Open, demonstrated long-lasting cognitive benefits up to six weeks after program completion.

SourceWashington State University·JournalAERA Open·DateMay 12, 2021

Stress reduction as a path to eating less fast food

A 16-week lifestyle intervention reduced stress levels and led to fewer fast-food meals among overweight, low-income mothers. The program focused on stress management and practical tips, resulting in a 7% decrease in high-fat food consumption.

SourceOhio State University·JournalNutrients·DateMar 11, 2021

Need to reduce work-related stress? It's a walk in the park

A study from the University of Tsukuba found that taking regular walks in forests and greenspaces may help workers cope with stress. The researchers analyzed data from over 6,000 Japanese workers and discovered a significant correlation between forest and greenspace walking habits and strong stress-coping abilities.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalPublic Health in Practice·DateJan 13, 2021
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.

Be mindful: Study shows mindfulness might not work as you expect

A new study from the University at Buffalo found that mindfulness may not effectively manage stress as it's happening, contrary to popular culture assertions. While mindful participants reported positive experiences afterward, their cardiovascular responses didn't demonstrate the expected benefits of mindfulness.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·DateNov 13, 2020
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.

Mindfulness training helps men manage anger

A study published by Norwegian University of Science and Technology found that mindfulness training can effectively help men manage their anger and reduce violent behavior towards their partners. The treatment group showed a significant decline in physical violence, from 85% to 10%, after completing the program.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalBMC Psychiatry·DateJul 21, 2020

COVID-19 spurs increase in self-care, new survey shows

A new survey found that 80% of U.S. adults will prioritize self-care after the pandemic, while nearly half report struggling to maintain their physical and mental health. The study highlights the need for a robust healthcare system to promote healthy habits and support self-care.

SourceThe Reis Group·DateJun 3, 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.

COVID-19 news from Annals of Internal Medicine

Hospitalists are on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic, facing additional stressors including fear of illness, social distancing measures, isolation, and protracted uncertainty. The author of a commentary explains how hospitalists can manage their stress during this challenging time.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateApr 21, 2020

Professional coaching alleviates burnout symptoms in physicians

A study by Mayo Clinic researchers found that external professional coaching can alleviate burnout symptoms in physicians. The coaching focused on goal setting, work choices, and influencing change at work, leading to reduced burnout and improved quality of life among participants.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateAug 5, 2019

Could α-Klotho be a potential biomarker of stress?

A study published in the Journal of Investigative Medicine found an association between stress and increased serum levels of α-Klotho (αKl). The researchers suggest that elevated sαKl levels may predict stressed conditions, making it a potential biomarker for stress.

SourceOsaka University·JournalJournal of Investigative Medicine·DateJul 24, 2019
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.

Boosting emotional intelligence in physicians can protect against burnout

A Loyola Medicine study shows that an educational curriculum for physicians improves their emotional intelligence, stress management, and overall wellness. The study suggests that teaching emotional intelligence skills may improve stress management, promote wellness, and prevent burnout in resident physicians.

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalAdvances in Medical Education and Practice·DateSep 20, 2018

Your stress and mine

A Tel Aviv University study found that people often project their own experiences with stress onto colleagues, causing miscommunication and missed opportunities. The research showed that a person's individual stress mindset colors their perception of others' health, productivity, and burnout levels.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalJournal of Experimental Social Psychology·DateNov 13, 2017