Add BrightSurf on Google Email

UCF lands new project to study effect of rain on hypersonic travel

A new $1 million project at UCF aims to understand how raindrops interact with hypersonic shock waves. Researchers will use computer simulations and experiments to predict conditions for safe hypersonic travel. The knowledge gained could prevent damage and improve rocket launch accuracy.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·DateFeb 4, 2022

Like peanut butter? This algorithm has a hunch as to what you'll buy next

Researchers developed an algorithm that incorporates customer behavior into recommendation systems, making more accurate and personalized suggestions. The technique, known as tensor decomposition, analyzes data in multiple dimensions to capture complex patterns and relationships.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 3, 2022
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.

Increase in home delivery service usage during COVID-19 pandemic unlikely to last

Research at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute finds that over 90% of people who use online delivery services would likely revert back to their original way of shopping. Delivery service users access products in four categories: groceries, food, home goods, and other items, with grocery deliveries having the highest proportion of new ado...

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalTransportation Research Part A Policy and Practice·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 3, 2022

Bubbles, bubbles everywhere

Researchers at Harvard SEAS developed a new way to simulate tens of thousands of bubbles in foamy flows. This allows for predictive simulations in scales ranging from microfluidics to crashing waves, opening up possibilities for industrial applications such as food production and drug development.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 2, 2022

Smart algorithms to transform Barcelona's shared mobility systems

Researchers from UOC-led OptimalSharing@SmartCities project will analyze inhabitants' mobility patterns and demands to design more efficient shared transport practices. The project aims to develop agile optimization algorithms capable of processing large volumes of data in real-time for dynamic system coordination.

SourceUniversitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC)·DateFeb 1, 2022

Researchers develop highly accurate modeling tool to predict Covid-19 risk

USC researchers develop highly accurate model to predict Covid-19 risk by combining anonymized cellphone location data with mobility patterns. The system shows a 50% improvement in accuracy compared to current systems, enabling targeted policy decisions at neighborhood or zip code levels.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalACM Transactions on Spatial Algorithms and Systems·DateFeb 1, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Moons may yield clues to what makes planets habitable

Researchers found that only certain types of planets can form large moons in respect to their host planets. They propose that smaller planets are better candidates to host fractionally large moons. This study provides constraints for future observations and sheds light on the formation of Earth's unique moon.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 1, 2022

Where did that sound come from?

The MIT team developed a computer model that can perform sound localization tasks as well as humans, and adapts to real-world environments. The model uses convolutional neural networks and was trained on over 400 sounds, including human voices and animal sounds.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateJan 27, 2022

Software for all: how do open-source communities work?

A UOC study found that non-code tasks are highly significant in open-source systems, complementing programming work. Researchers analyzed 100 npm projects to gain a deeper understanding of collaboration dynamics.

SourceUniversitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC)·JournalEmpirical Software Engineering·DateJan 24, 2022

When should someone trust an AI assistant’s predictions?

MIT researchers develop teaching phase that guides humans in understanding AI strengths and weaknesses, enabling more accurate decisions and faster conclusions. The technique helps humans build a mental model of the AI agent, reducing reliance on biased assumptions.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateJan 20, 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.

New modeling tools to help solid-waste systems reach environmental goals

A new open-source tool called SwolfPy helps solid waste systems achieve environmental goals by assessing various options in one place. The tool identifies the range of best possible options for users, depending on their priorities.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Industrial Ecology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 20, 2022

New models assess bridge support repairs after earthquakes

Engineers developed a computational modeling strategy to simulate restoration strategies for reinforced concrete columns. The models predict the effects of repair methods on column strength and ductility before and after repair.

SourceRice University·JournalEngineering Structures·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 18, 2022

Too much heavy metal stops stars producing

The ARC Centre of Excellence for All Sky Astrophysics in 3D has discovered that the youngest generation of stars will eventually stop contributing metals back to the universe. This change affects the composition of the galaxy over time, with around half of the carbon and all elements heavier than iron synthesized by stars like our Sun.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for All Sky Astrophysics in 3D (ASTRO 3D)·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 11, 2022
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Bioengineer awarded NSF CAREER grant to improve cardiovascular flow computer models using machine learning

A bioengineer at Northern Arizona University received a $507,642 NSF CAREER grant to improve cardiovascular flow computer models using machine learning. The project aims to develop software that synergistically integrates deep learning and traditional physics-based modeling to address fundamental issues in high-fidelity blood flow and ...

SourceNorthern Arizona University·DateJan 11, 2022

Computer model seeks to explain the spread of misinformation, and suggest counter measures

A computer model developed by Tufts University researchers mirrors the spread of misinformation in real life. The model takes into account pre-existing beliefs, which can influence how individuals accept new information, and provides insight into strategies to counter misinformation.

SourceTufts University·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 11, 2022

Seeking a way of preventing audio models for AI machine learning from being fooled

A recent study found that conventional metrics for detecting audio adversarial examples are unreliable and fail to accurately represent human perception. Researchers proposed a more robust evaluation method, but acknowledge the complexity of modeling auditory perception with mathematical metrics.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalComputers & Security·DateJan 6, 2022
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.

Custom finger clip offers a new way to measure blood pressure, other vitals

Researchers have developed a custom finger clip device that measures blood pressure and other vital signs like heart rate, oxygen saturation, body temperature, and respiratory rate. The device uses photoplethysmography sensors and achieves an accuracy rate of about 90% for systolic blood pressure.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalIEEE Sensors Journal·DateJan 4, 2022

Covid-19 infections in nursing homes: Simulation model for optimal prevention and vaccination strategies

Austrian researchers developed a detailed epidemiological model to study the spread of coronavirus in nursing homes. The agent-based simulation tool helps balance safety and quality of life, considering vaccination rates and testing accuracy. With a high vaccination rate, major outbreaks are no longer expected.

SourceGraz University of Technology·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 22, 2021

Could EKGs help doctors use AI to detect pulmonary embolisms?

A pilot study suggests that machine learning algorithms combining EKG and electronic health record data can more effectively screen for pulmonary embolisms than current tests. The fusion model was found to be 15-30% more effective at accurately identifying cases, especially severe ones.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalEuropean Heart Journal - Digital Health·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 2021

Earthquake depth impacts potential tsunami threat

Researchers discovered a connection between earthquake characteristics and tsunami size, finding that shallow rupture can produce larger tsunamis. This study suggests reevaluating the use of earthquake magnitude in estimating tsunami threats.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalNature Geoscience·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 17, 2021
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.

Theropod dinosaur jaws became stronger as they evolved - study

Researchers found that theropods strengthened their jaws through time, with expanding rear jaw portions and evolving different jaw shapes depending on diet. This allowed them to exploit a wider range of food items and minimized bone fracture risk.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 16, 2021

Advanced analysis of Apollo sample illuminates Moon’s evolution

A new study published in Nature Communications reveals chemical heterogeneities in Apollo 17 sample troctolite 76535, indicating an early rapid cooling of the Moon. This finding challenges previous estimates of a 100-million-year cooling duration and supports initial rapid cooling of magmas within the lunar crust.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 14, 2021

Gunfire or plastic bag popping? Trained computer can tell the difference

Researchers developed an algorithm to differentiate life-threatening gunshot events from non-life-threatening plastic bag explosion events. The study found that 75% of plastic bag pop sounds were misclassified as gunshot sounds, highlighting the need for a diverse dataset of similar sounds.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalSensors·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 13, 2021
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.

AI models microprocessor performance in real-time

A new AI algorithm, APOLLO, accurately predicts microprocessor power consumption by analyzing just 100 signals out of millions, offering potential to improve efficiency and develop new processors. The technique has been validated on high-performance microprocessors and could help designers inform future chip design.

SourceDuke University·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 10, 2021

Preventing extreme polarization of political attitudes

A new study suggests that strictly limiting exposure to dissimilar views could be an effective mechanism for avoiding rapid polarization. Another interesting finding is that a small amount of self-interest can dramatically reduce polarization.

SourceSanta Fe Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 8, 2021

Study: AI-powered computer model predicts disease progression during aging

Researchers developed an AI-powered system to model disease progression in patients as they age. The model assesses metabolic and cardiovascular biomarkers to calculate health status and disease risks across a patient's lifespan.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalJournal of Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics·DateDec 7, 2021

NYITCOM research finds nasal problem plagued long-nosed crocodile relatives

A new study published in the journal Anatomical Record reveals that gharial species, native to India, suffer from nasal septal deviation, a condition common among humans. The researchers found that this deviated septum affects the breathing rate and may lead to high shearing stresses along the nasal walls.

SourceNew York Institute of Technology·JournalThe Anatomical Record·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 3, 2021
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.

Another breakthrough for team studying our solar system’s protective bubble

A team of astrophysicists led by Boston University's Merav Opher has made a groundbreaking discovery about the heliosphere, the bubble surrounding our solar system. Their research suggests that neutral hydrogen particles play a crucial role in shaping the heliosphere's structure and stability.

SourceBoston University·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·DateDec 3, 2021

Predicting protein-protein interactions

A deep-learning model called D-SCRIPT predicts protein-protein interactions from primary amino acid sequences with high accuracy. The model enables the detection of functional subnetworks and can be applied to many species, including those with rare or lacking PPI data.

SourceTufts University·JournalCell Systems·DateDec 2, 2021

Award will help UTA recruit diverse American students for computer science research

The University of Texas at Arlington has received a $1.5 million grant from the US Department of Education to support domestic doctoral students specializing in Internet-of-Things study and research. The project aims to increase diversity among computer science researchers, with a focus on women and minorities.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateDec 1, 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.

Summer rains in American Southwest are not your typical monsoon

Detailed supercomputer simulations show that the North American monsoon occurs when Mexico's Sierra Madre Occidental mountains divert the eastward-trending jet stream toward the equator, cooling moist tropical air until it condenses and falls as rain. This new understanding will impact forecasts in the region.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 30, 2021

Satellites reveal Arctic rivers are changing faster than we thought

Research reveals Arctic rivers are discharging much more water than previously thought, with acceleration up to three times higher than estimated. The RADR project assimilates satellite information into hydrologic models for the entire pan-Arctic region.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 29, 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.

Polymers with helical blocks

A team of researchers has developed a polymer that can form folded (ordered) and unfolded (disordered) domains using UV irradiation. The polymer's structure is controlled by non-bonding interactions between monomers, allowing it to be manipulated after formation.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 29, 2021

AU researchers behind new breakthrough in surface-based groundwater measurement

Researchers at Aarhus University have developed a groundbreaking technology to accurately map and characterize groundwater systems. The new method uses surface-based NMR measurements, enabling detailed hydrogeological and geological analysis in previously inaccessible areas.

SourceAarhus University·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateNov 24, 2021

Two-meter COVID-19 rule is ‘arbitrary measurement’ of safety

A new study suggests that social distancing alone is ineffective in mitigating COVID-19 spread and recommends vaccination, ventilation, and masks as vital measures. The researchers found that individual coughs vary widely, leading to a 'safe' distance of anywhere between one to three or more meters.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalPhysics of Fluids·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 23, 2021

COVID gets airborne

UC San Diego researchers developed a computer model to understand how viruses travel through the air, shedding new light on airborne COVID-19 transmission. The model simulates aerosol behavior and helps explain why SARS-CoV-2 is highly transmissible through the air.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 22, 2021
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.

Computer scientist hailed for introducing AI concepts to K-12 students

Fred Martin, a UMass Lowell computer scientist, is being recognized for developing an educational framework that introduces robotics and AI to K-12 students. His work has guided the development of primary and secondary AI education initiatives worldwide.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Lowell·DateNov 18, 2021

Antarctic ice-sheet destabilized within a decade

A new data-model study suggests that the Antarctic Ice Sheet's tipping point was reached within a decade, leading to centuries of ice mass loss and potential irreversible ice retreat. The research team analyzed sediment cores and computer models to identify evidence of post-glacial tipping points in the past.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 18, 2021

Re-identifying faces from genomic data is more difficult than previously thought

Researchers found that re-identifying individuals from genomic data using public face images is harder than previously thought, with success rates well below idealized settings. They developed a method to alter social media photos and reduce the risk of privacy breaches.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalScience Advances·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 18, 2021
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Multidisciplinary team from UCI publishes new guidance for neuroscience statistical analysis

A multidisciplinary team from UCI has published a new guide for statistical analysis in neuroscience research, providing an overview of mixed-effects models and clear instructions on their application. The guide aims to improve the validity and reproducibility of experimental findings in the field.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalNeuron·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 16, 2021

The Sorting Hat: An AI-powered image classifier for cell biologists

Researchers from Okayama University developed an AI-powered image classifier to simplify and speed up the task of image analysis in cell biology. The system achieved high detection accuracy for mitotic cells in plant species, demonstrating its potential for non-experts to use.

SourceOkayama University·JournalChromosome Research·TypeImaging analysis·DateNov 16, 2021

Machine learning helps to locally restore wetlands for coastal protection

International researchers used machine learning to forecast marsh establishment under various environmental conditions, revealing that controllable local factors are more important than global climate change. The study suggests smart management of tidal flats can counteract threats and strengthen wetlands.

SourceRoyal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 16, 2021

Nitrogen calculators not created equal, according to Illinois study

A new Illinois study compares performance of static and dynamic nitrogen recommendation tools, finding that complex dynamic tools do not consistently increase profits but offer a 15% reduction in nitrogen leaching. The researchers highlight the need to refine these tools and prioritize environmental outcomes over economic gains.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalAgricultural Systems·DateNov 11, 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.

Your heart 2.0

Researchers have developed AI-powered computer models to predict heart attacks, strokes, and stress-induced blood pressure changes. The models use machine learning to detect early signs of aortic valve anomalies, enabling at-home monitoring and improved diagnostic accuracy.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·JournalFrontiers in Physiology·DateNov 10, 2021

New AI brings the power of natural language processing to African languages

Researchers developed AfriBERTa, a neural network model that achieves state-of-the-art results for low-resource African languages. The model works with 11 languages spoken by over 400 million people and requires only one gigabyte of data, compared to thousands for existing models.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·DateNov 9, 2021

Mapping annual wildfire probabilities across California

A statistical modeling approach highlights predictive importance of local climate and human activity in determining wildfire probabilities. The analysis uncovered key roles for climate, human activity, fire history, and short-term climate variations in fire-prone regions.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 3, 2021

Better models of atmospheric ‘detergent’ can help predict climate change

Researchers used computer simulations to predict the presence of hydroxyl radicals, which clean pollutants from the atmosphere. The study showed that traditional models had widely varying forecasts due to uncertainties in gas emissions, and that better models can aid in combating climate change.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 2, 2021

Story tips: Predicting water quality, stronger & ‘stretchier’ alloys, RAPID reinforcement and mountainous water towers

Researchers create a multiscale model to track water quality indicators like nitrogen and mercury levels, incorporating biogeochemical reactions in microbially-active zones. They also develop 'stretchier' alloys by adding nano structures, which enhance strength and ductility, making them suitable for various applications. Additionally,...

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 1, 2021
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.

Behavioral synchronization in complex societies of feral horses

Research at Kyoto University using drones and a multi-agent system found that feral horses synchronize their behavior not only within unit groups but also across different parts of the herd. The study's results suggest that individual horses can recognize the behavior of distant individuals, averaging a nearest distance of 39.3m.

SourceKyoto University·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateOct 28, 2021

Researchers map best conditions for forage fishes in the Chesapeake

A new study by Virginia Institute of Marine Science researchers maps the conditions most suitable for key species of forage fishes in the Chesapeake Bay, offering guidance for protecting or restoring their habitats. The analysis reveals that factors such as water depth and temperature affect the abundance of forage fish, with some spec...

SourceVirginia Institute of Marine Science·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·TypeObservational study·DateOct 27, 2021

Citizen scientists’ contributions a boon to snowpack modeling, OSU research shows

Researchers from Oregon State University have found that citizen scientist contributions significantly improve snowpack modeling, particularly in high mountain environments. The study leverages data collected by thousands of citizen scientists through the NASA-funded Community Snow Observations project.

SourceOregon State University·JournalHydrology and Earth System Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 26, 2021

Artificial intelligence sheds light on how the brain processes language

A new study reveals that high-performing AI next-word prediction models resemble the function of language-processing centers in the human brain. The models' activity patterns closely match those seen in the brain during language tasks, suggesting a potential connection between AI and human language processing.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 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.

University of Surrey research discover links to Bernard Williams’ 40-year-old “slosh” hypothesis

A computer model developed by the University of Surrey researchers supports Bernard Williams' 40-year-old hypothesis that pressure changes cause fluid in the cavity to 'slosh', generating stress in the spinal cord tissue. The study shows that this process can lead to small cavities gradually expanding down the spinal cord.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalLife·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 25, 2021

Computer model aims to aid with planning during epidemics

Researchers created EpiPolicy software system to model epidemics, maximizing public health protections while minimizing economic and social costs. The model uses Monte Carlo and reinforcement learning techniques to design intervention strategies automatically, taking into account risk and uncertainty.

SourceNew York University·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 20, 2021

Patient-specific plates may help heal collarbone fractures

A new study suggests that patient-specific plates can provide superior performance in terms of anatomical fit and fracture stability. Custom-made plates designed through computer modeling have shown potential in improving healing outcomes for clavicle fractures.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Orthopaedic Research®·DateOct 20, 2021