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Searching for structure and purpose in disordered behavior

A recent special issue of Perspectives on Psychological Science delves into the study of individual variability, or 'noise,' in human behavior. Researchers argue that noise is not an error to be minimized but rather a source of information that can provide insights into psychological processes. By analyzing distributions of noise, scie...

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPerspectives on Psychological Science·DateMar 4, 2025

Could ‘cognitive drills’ when warming up give athletes a head-start?

A new study found that combining physical warmups with short bursts of cognitive tasks enhances athletic performance. Researchers discovered a 'Goldilocks effect,' where the right balance between cognitive and physical activities is key to optimal performance.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalBrain Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 24, 2025
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.

BioChatter: making large language models accessible for biomedical research

BioChatter bridges the gap between large language models and biomedical research by providing a transparent and adaptable framework for custom research tasks. The platform can integrate with knowledge graphs and bioinformatics tools, making it easier for researchers to analyze complex datasets.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalNature Biotechnology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 22, 2025

A unified approach to health data exchange

The US Department of Health and Human Services has developed a unified approach to health data exchange, utilizing electronic health records to enhance patient care and public health. This initiative aims to standardize the sharing of health data across different entities, enabling better decision-making and improved healthcare outcomes.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateJan 18, 2025
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.

Unlocking the ‘black box’: scientists reveal AI’s hidden thoughts

Researchers developed a new method, k* distribution method, to visualize and assess how well deep neural networks categorize related items together. The model reveals clustered, fractured or overlapping arrangements of data points, indicating accuracy and reliability issues.

SourceKyushu University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Neural Networks and Learning Systems·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 12, 2024

Training AI through human interactions instead of datasets

Researchers developed a platform to help AI learn complex tasks through nuance and real-time instruction, achieving up to a 30% increase in success rates. The GUIDE framework allows humans to provide ongoing, nuanced feedback, fostering incremental improvements and deeper understanding.

SourceDuke University·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 3, 2024

User language distorts ChatGPT information on armed conflicts

A study found that ChatGPT provides higher fatality numbers when asked in Arabic compared to questions in Hebrew, highlighting the impact of user language on information dissemination. The researchers believe this has profound social implications, as it can shape perceptions of conflict and fuel biases.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalJournal of Peace Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 25, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Enhanced wavelength conversion to advance quantum information networks

Researchers at Shanghai Jiao Tong University develop a novel method for broadband frequency conversion using X-cut thin film lithium niobate, achieving a bandwidth of up to 13 nanometers. This breakthrough enables on-chip tunable frequency conversion, opening the door to enhanced quantum light sources and larger capacity multiplexing.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·DateOct 15, 2024

New data science tool greatly speeds up molecular analysis of our environment

A research team developed a computational workflow for analyzing large data sets in metabolomics, speeding up the process to capture chemical profiles of coastal environments. The tool, accessible to researchers worldwide, highlights potential sources of pollution and enables statistical insights within minutes.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature Protocols·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 20, 2024

New machine learning model offers simple solution to predicting crop yield

A new machine-learning model developed by a University of Arkansas student improves upon existing genotype-by-environmental interaction models, achieving higher prediction accuracy. The model uses feature engineering to process environmental data, leading to a 7% improvement in mean prediction accuracy.

SourceUniversity of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture·JournalTheoretical and Applied Genetics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 3, 2024
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 insights into neural circuit imaging: A comparison of one-photon and two-photon techniques

A recent study by Harvard University researchers compares the effectiveness of one-photon (1P) versus two-photon (2P) voltage imaging in neural circuits. The study found that 2P excitation requires approximately 10,000 times more illumination power per cell compared to 1P excitation, posing significant challenges for 2P voltage imaging.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalNeurophotonics·DateAug 14, 2024

Data protection laws reduced breaches but affected firms’ value

Research by University of East Anglia and University of Texas found that stricter data privacy laws significantly reduced breaches, but negatively affected firms' market value. Companies compliant with GDPR invested more in data protection and were less likely to experience data breaches.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalJournal of Business Finance &amp Accounting·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 17, 2024
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.

Can a computer chip have zero energy loss in 1.58 dimensions?

Theoretical physicists at Utrecht University have discovered that fractals might hold the key to making electric currents flow without energy loss. By growing fractal structures on top of semiconductors, scientists have created materials with zero-dimensional corner modes and lossless one-dimensional edge states.

SourceUtrecht University, Faculty of Science·JournalNature Physics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 1, 2024

Making ferromagnets ready for ultra-fast communication and computation technology

A breakthrough in ferromagnet research enables ultra-fast spin behavior, leading to potential advancements in communication and computation technologies. The study's findings have the potential to unlock terahertz processing power, a thousand times faster than current smartphones and computers.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 13, 2024

Bio-inspired cameras and AI help drivers detect pedestrians and obstacles faster

Researchers have developed a system combining bio-inspired cameras with AI to quickly detect obstacles around cars, using less computational power. The hybrid system detects objects up to one hundred times faster than current systems while reducing data transmission and processing needs.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 29, 2024
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Speedy, secure, sustainable — that's the future of telecom

A new device uses small amounts of light to process information, offering significant energy improvements over conventional optical switches. This technology could enable quantum communications, providing a promising alternative for data security against rising cyberattacks.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalNature Photonics·DateMay 14, 2024

The right frame determines the movement

Researchers at German Primate Center investigated how rhesus monkeys encode target positions in arm movements, finding that brain areas can switch between body- and object-related spatial reference systems depending on the task. This flexible coding is essential for developing neuroprostheses that can interpret brain signals correctly.

SourceDeutsches Primatenzentrum (DPZ)/German Primate Center·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 26, 2024
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.

Eye-opener: Pupils enlarge when people focus on tasks

A recent study published in Attention, Perception & Psychophysics found a correlation between pupil dilation and working memory. Researchers at the University of Texas at Arlington discovered that individuals with better working memory had larger pupil dilations during tasks, indicating improved focus and attention.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalAttention Perception & Psychophysics·TypeObservational study·DateApr 22, 2024

Training of brain processes makes reading more efficient

Researchers at the University of Cologne found that training can optimize word recognition, leading to improved reading efficiency. The 'Lexical Categorization Model' uses behavioral findings to predict brain activation and separates known words from unknown letter combinations.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·Journalnpj Science of Learning·TypeObservational study·DateApr 18, 2024

Revolutionizing drone navigation: AI algorithms take flight

Researchers at University of Missouri are developing software that allows drones to fly independently, perceiving and interacting with their environment while achieving specific goals. This technology has the potential to assist in mapping and monitoring applications, such as 3D or 4D advanced imagery for disaster response.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·DateMar 26, 2024
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.

EU funding for outstanding early-career researcher Pieter Gunnink

Dr. Pieter Gunnink receives a €190,000 grant to develop a theoretical framework for enhancing spin current transport in open magnon systems. This project aims to enable new information processing techniques using spintronics. The EU's Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions program supports researchers at all career stages.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·DateMar 1, 2024

Challenging the traditional views on how the brain processes movement and sensation

A study by Fujita Health University researchers unveiled novel insights into the brain's processing of movement and sensation. The findings suggest that signals from motor cortices do not primarily modulate sensory responses in primary sensory cortices, but rather pathways from secondary somatosensory cortex (S2) and sensory thalamus (...

SourceFujita Health University·JournalJNeurosci·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 11, 2024

Trust or distrust? Neither! The right mindset for confronting disinformation

A comprehensive review challenges traditional trust and distrust mindsets, instead advocating for an alternative Cartesian mindset. This evaluative approach has shown promise in distinguishing between true and false information, reducing the propagation of disinformation.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalCurrent Opinion in Psychology·TypeObservational study·DateDec 18, 2023
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.

Breakthrough study shows exercise improves cognitive health for people with Down syndrome

A breakthrough study found that light exercise can improve cognitive health in adults with Down syndrome, leading to improved information processing and attention. After just eight weeks of walking, participants showed significant increases in physical fitness and reductions in errors during cognitive assessments.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateNov 29, 2023

Green spaces can save lives, according to urban big data

Researchers found that green spaces alleviate extreme heat's negative impacts on human health, while densely packed buildings increase mortality risk. Urban design strategies incorporating different types of greenery are recommended to mitigate heatwave-associated mortality.

SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 5, 2023
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.

Magnetic whirls pave the way for energy-efficient computing

By increasing skyrmion diffusion, researchers have made a significant step towards developing spin-based, unconventional computing. The use of synthetic antiferromagnets has reduced energy consumption and increased speed, making it possible to create more efficient computers.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 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.

New project to make data curation accessible

A new project by JooYoung Seo at the University of Illinois School of Information Sciences aims to make data curation more accessible for everyone, regardless of abilities. The three-year grant will connect multimodal data representation with day-to-day reproducible workflows, enriching understanding and offering multiple perspectives.

SourceUniversity of Illinois School of Information Sciences·DateAug 31, 2023

Kessler Foundation team examines influence of processing speed on treatment benefits of cognitive rehabilitation for individuals with traumatic brain injury

Research by Kessler Foundation team found that processing speed plays a role in benefit from the modified Story Memory Technique on verbal list learning but not on prose memory tasks. This suggests that treating deficits in processing speed may lead to optimal outcomes for individuals with traumatic brain injury.

SourceKessler Foundation·JournalBrain Injury·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 25, 2023

Does deafness alter brain circuits supporting social skills?

New research published in Human Brain Mapping indicates that deafness does not affect the mechanisms and brain circuits supporting social skills. Deaf individuals show greater activation in regions involved in processing visual inputs like signs and lip reading.

SourceWiley·JournalHuman Brain Mapping·DateAug 23, 2023
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.

Formerly depressed patients continue to focus on negative

Research published by the American Psychological Association found that individuals with a history of depression spend more time processing negative information than positive information, putting them at risk for relapse. This bias towards negative thinking may hinder effective treatment and prevention strategies.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Psychopathology and Clinical Science·DateAug 21, 2023

Shining a light on neuromorphic computing

Optical memristors have the potential to transform high-bandwidth neuromorphic computing, machine learning hardware, and artificial intelligence. However, scalability is a significant challenge that needs to be addressed to unlock their full potential.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalNature Photonics·DateJun 5, 2023

Study shows promising treatment for tinnitus

A recent study from Michigan Medicine suggests relief may be possible for individuals with tinnitus, a condition characterized by ringing or hissing sounds. The innovative bi-sensory treatment device improved quality of life and reduced tinnitus loudness in nearly 70% of participants.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 5, 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.

Automated, accurate reporting for NGS-based clonality testing

Researchers have developed an automated calling algorithm for determining B and T cell clonality from NGS data with greater sensitivity than previous models. The new model increases the assay's sensitivity in detecting clonality, allowing for more accurate diagnosis and monitoring of lymphoproliferative disorders.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 16, 2023

Older adults are more easily distracted, study reports

A study by University of California, Riverside found that older adults are less likely to ignore distractors in their surroundings while engaging in a cognitive task and an effortful physical task. This decline is greater when simultaneously performing a physical task, such as driving or carrying grocery bags.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalPsychology and Aging·TypeObservational study·DateMay 10, 2023
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.

Lithography-free photonic chip offers speed and accuracy for artificial intelligence

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Engineering and Applied Science have created a photonic device that provides programmable on-chip information processing without lithography. This breakthrough enables superior accuracy and flexibility for AI applications, overcoming limitations of traditional electronic systems.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalNature Photonics·DateMay 1, 2023

Study finds ChatGTP outperforms physicians in providing high-quality, empathetic advice to patient questions

A new study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that ChatGPT's responses were preferred by a panel of licensed healthcare professionals 79% of the time. The AI model was also rated higher in terms of quality and empathy, with good or very good quality responses being 3.6 times higher for ChatGPT than physicians.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 28, 2023