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Politicization and prioritization in the judiciary

A study by Adam Bonica and Maya Sen reveals that American courts become politicized due to strategic judicial selection. The researchers found that higher courts are more conservative and polarized, deviating from the broader legal profession's liberal ideology.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalThe Journal of Law and Economics·DateAug 1, 2018

Natural habitat can help farmers control pests, but not always a win-win

A study found that natural habitat surrounding farm fields is not always effective in controlling pests, with benefits varying widely across the globe. The analysis, published in PNAS, compiled data from over 6,700 sites in 31 countries, revealing no one-size-fits-all recommendations for farmers.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 30, 2018
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.

Database analysis more reliable than animal testing for toxic chemicals

A study published in Toxicological Sciences suggests that computer algorithms can predict toxic properties of chemicals more accurately than standard animal tests. The researchers developed a large database of known chemicals and used machine-learning algorithms to create a map of chemical structures and their associated toxic properties.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalToxicological Sciences·DateJul 11, 2018

A common electronic language for magnetic resonance

A UNIGE-led team of chemists has created a common electronic language, NMReDATA, to process organic molecule data. This standardizes the translation of spectra, enabling easy export and reuse of data, and paving the way for an international, open-access database and AI analysis.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalMagnetic Resonance in Chemistry·DateJun 6, 2018
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.

New platform for analyzing global trade in the last two centuries

The Federico-Tena World Trade Historical Database collects data on imports and exports from 140 countries between 1800 and 1938, providing a more accurate understanding of global trade history. This new platform enables researchers to compare trade trends over time and analyze the relationship between globalization and economic growth.

SourceUniversidad Carlos III de Madrid·DateMay 25, 2018

New study reveals how electronic health records can benefit clinical trials

A new Swansea University study finds that using anonymised routinely collected electronic health records can help track trial participants over long-term periods, providing more complete results. The use of these records reduces volunteer bias, increases reliability, and provides new insights into population health.

SourceSwansea University·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 16, 2018
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.

Not quite a 'double bind' for minority women in science

A study of scientific articles found that minority women face a disadvantage, but it is less than the sum of being black or Hispanic and being a woman. The probability of being last author increased over time for all groups, with black scientists and women facing slower progress.

SourceOhio State University·JournalAEA Papers and Proceedings·DateMay 15, 2018

Protecting confidentiality in genomic studies

Researchers at MIT and Stanford University present a new system for protecting genomic data privacy in large-scale biomedical studies. The system uses secret sharing to divide sensitive data among multiple servers, enabling efficient privacy protection for millions of genomes.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateMay 7, 2018

Alcohol intake may be linked to premenstrual syndrome

A pooled analysis of published study data suggests that around 11% of PMS cases may be associated with alcohol intake globally. Heavy drinking is estimated to increase the risk by 79%, with potential biological explanations including altered sex steroid hormone levels and serotonin production.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Open·DateApr 23, 2018

Applying network analysis to natural history

A team of researchers used network analysis techniques to study the fossil records of marine life, revealing patterns in Earth's natural history. The analysis showed that major events like mass extinctions had significant ecological impacts, with some effects previously underestimated or overestimated.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 23, 2018
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.

Can estimates from forensic handwriting experts be trusted in court?

A new study found that forensic handwriting experts are marginally better than novices at estimating the frequency of specific features in handwriting samples, but with large overall error rates. The researchers advise courts to take a cautious approach when using experience-based likelihood ratios as evidence.

SourceSpringer·JournalPsychonomic Bulletin & Review·DateApr 18, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

NREL opens large database of inorganic thin-film materials

The High Throughput Experimental Materials (HTEM) Database contains detailed properties and synthesis conditions of inorganic materials, accelerating material science advancement globally. NREL's large-scale database makes it easier for researchers without expensive equipment to explore new materials.

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·JournalScientific Data·DateApr 10, 2018
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.

Criminologist, student team build database on US school shootings

A team of researchers is creating a comprehensive database on US school shootings, tracking incidents since 1990. The National Institute of Justice project will help law enforcement and school administrators understand the causes of K-12 school violence and inform effective prevention strategies.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·DateMar 8, 2018

The Forsyth Institute expands key human microbiome database

The expanded Human Oral Microbiome Database (eHOMD) now contains 772 species, providing a wealth of information for researchers studying oral health and overall wellness. The database's expansion will facilitate work on fighting infectious diseases and better understanding human health and disease.

SourceForsyth Institute·DateMar 6, 2018

A treasure trove for nanotechnology experts

A team from EPFL and NCCR Marvel has identified more than 1,000 materials with a particularly interesting 2D structure, paving the way for groundbreaking technological applications. The researchers developed an algorithm to analyze 100,000 materials, creating a database of promising 2D materials.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateMar 6, 2018
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

NIH pilot project will match researchers to genes, gene variants of interest

The Genomic Ascertainment Cohort (TGAC) will allow researchers to recall genotyped individuals and investigate the influence of their genes and gene variants on phenotypes. The NIH will establish a new database of 10,000 human genomes and exomes, enabling predictions of conditions caused by specific genes or variants.

SourceNIH/National Human Genome Research Institute·DateMar 1, 2018

Using crowdsourced data, scientists build massive family tree that tells tales of humanity

Researchers created a massive crowd-sourced family tree analyzing 86 million public profiles from Geni.com, uncovering trends in migration patterns and genetic relatedness. The study found females migrate more than males, and couples born between 1800-1850 showed increased marital distances despite higher genetic relatedness.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMar 1, 2018

Genetics or lifestyle: What is it that shapes our microbiome?

A large-scale study led by the Weizmann Institute of Science found that diet and lifestyle are the primary factors shaping our microbiome composition. The research suggests that understanding these influences may be key to improving health and treating common diseases.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalNature·DateFeb 28, 2018
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.

Unprecedented study of Picasso's bronzes uncovers new details

Researchers used portable instruments and a robust database of alloy 'fingerprints' to analyze 39 bronzes cast between 1905 and 1959. They traced five bronzes to Emile Robecchi's foundry in WWII Paris, revealing varying alloy compositions during the Nazi occupation.

SourceNorthwestern University·DateFeb 17, 2018

Acne linked with increased risk of depression

Researchers found a significant link between acne and major depression, with a 63% higher risk within the first year of diagnosis. The study highlights the importance of monitoring mood symptoms in patients with acne and initiating prompt treatment for depression.

SourceWiley·JournalBritish Journal of Dermatology·DateFeb 7, 2018

Powerful new dataset reveals patterns of global ozone pollution

A new global database of surface ozone observations has been released, providing insights into ozone pollution trends and patterns worldwide. Despite decreasing emissions in North America and Europe, many regions still experience excessive ozone levels, posing health concerns for populations.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·DateFeb 5, 2018
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.

Designing the next generation of hair dyes

Researchers created the largest publicly available chemical database of hair dye substances to develop new, safer hair colors. The database reveals promising approaches for reducing allergic reactions and cancer risk associated with permanent hair dyes.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·DateJan 16, 2018
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.

DNA evidence is putting rhino poachers behind bars, study shows

A new DNA-based system is successfully linking seized rhino horns to specific crime scenes where rhinoceros carcasses were left behind. The Rhino DNA Index System (RhODIS) has been used in over 5,800 forensic cases and has led to convictions in more than 120 cases.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJan 8, 2018
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.

A visual database of human plasma compounds

Researchers at Tohoku University have created a visual database of metabolites from over 5,000 Japanese volunteers, offering valuable insights into how specific compounds relate to each other. The jMorp database contains information on 306 metabolites and 256 common proteins, with graphical correlation tools to facilitate further study.

SourceTohoku University·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateDec 22, 2017

Space station research explorer on NASA.gov launches phase one

Space Station Research Explorer on NASA.gov provides a tailored experience for scientists and enthusiasts, offering thousands of investigations, results summaries, and in-orbit photographs. The new tool features improved search capabilities, social media sharing, and bookmarking options.

SourceNASA/Johnson Space Center·DateDec 15, 2017

New software can verify someone's identity by their DNA in minutes

Researchers developed a method to quickly and accurately identify people and cell lines from their DNA. The technology can flag mislabeled or contaminated cell lines in cancer experiments, potentially speeding up the discovery of new treatments.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·DateNov 30, 2017
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.

Time between world-changing volcanic super-eruptions less than previously thought

A team from the University of Bristol analyzed geological records to find that volcanic super-eruptions occur much more frequently than previously estimated, with a new average time between events of around 17 thousand years. This re-evaluation raises concerns about the potential impact on global weather patterns and human civilization.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalEarth and Planetary Science Letters·DateNov 29, 2017

New database catalogues plants that soak up contamination

The Global Hyperaccumulator Database contains data on 721 species of plants capable of absorbing high amounts of metal compounds. The database aims to facilitate the identification and utilization of these hyperaccumulators for environmental cleanup, particularly in mining-affected areas.

SourceWiley·JournalNew Phytologist·DateNov 21, 2017
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Fly hunter has described 30 new species

A Norwegian PhD candidate has discovered 30 new species of non-biting midges, using DNA barcoding to confirm the identities of the insects. The research provides significant contributions to the knowledge of this insect group and highlights the importance of DNA barcoding in understanding biodiversity.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalInsect Systematics & Evolution·DateOct 26, 2017
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.

Knowledge of larval fish just a drop in the ocean

A year-long survey of Red Sea fish larvae found varying stock levels through the seasons, with higher abundance at near-shore sites during colder months. The study also identified differences in community structure, with deeper-adapted species prevalent at offshore sites.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 26, 2017

Can good design be cost-effective?

A massive database of mobile app designs has been created to help designers find cost-effective solutions, allowing for the automated exploration of less common screens and machine-learning models that can go beyond simple search interactions.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·DateOct 25, 2017
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Preservation for the (digital) ages

Digital archivists from UT Austin collaborate with classicists to improve database preservation methods, enabling long-term accessibility of texts. The new approach preserves data and interactive applications separately, allowing for reuse in different contexts.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·DateOct 17, 2017
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.

More than half of police killings not officially documented on US death certificates

A new study from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health found that official US death certificates failed to count over half of the people killed by police in 2015, with a greater proportion undercounted in lower-income counties and for deaths involving non-firearm means like Tasers. The study's findings highlight the need for better...

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateOct 10, 2017