This Just In

A roundup of new and noteworthy insights from the week’s most talked-about studies:

1 HOUSEHOLD DUST MIGHT BE DANGEROUS

A study published in Environmental Science and Technology found that 10 chemicals known or thought to harm humans are found at varying levels in 90% of household dust. The chemicals come from household goods like furniture and toys, and can cause a range of issues including respiratory problems and cancer.

2 ADOLESCENTS WILL EAT HEALTHY FOODS IF IT SEEMS REBELLIOUS

A study in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that eighth-graders were more likely to make healthier food choices when they were framed as appealing to adolescent values–in this case, challenging the authority of food-industry giants.

3 FITNESS TRACKERS MAY NOT HELP WEIGHT LOSS

A report in the Journal of the American Medical Association tracked weight-loss efforts over two years by two groups of people. Only one group used wearables, and its members lost significantly less weight, on average.

–J.Z.