Add BrightSurf on Google Email

The hidden costs of free apps – more than personal data

Researchers found that users pay a price for free mobile apps, including reduced focus, sleep deprivation, and loss of physical contact. Users prefer to make one-time purchases to protect their privacy over using services with hidden costs.

SourceLinköping University·JournalDigital Policy Regulation and Governance·TypeSurvey·DateOct 10, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

UTA professor honored for science education leadership

Karen Jo Matsler, a UTA professor, is being honored for her extensive contributions to physics education and her efforts to support educators nationwide. Her Quantum for All initiative aims to integrate quantum concepts into high school science instruction, preparing students for careers in quantum technology.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateOct 3, 2024

Smartphone-assisted “scavenger hunt” identifies people at risk for dementia

A study using a smartphone-based wayfinding task identified individuals with increased risk for dementia, based on their movement patterns and spatial memory. The research provides promising insights into the potential of digital technologies for early detection and monitoring of Alzheimer's disease.

SourceDZNE - German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases·JournalPLOS Digital Health·TypeObservational study·DateOct 3, 2024

Do NFTs create value in games? There are at least three ways to look at it

Research by Alesha Serada at the University of Vaasa highlights that NFTs in games derive value from social relations and community, rather than rarity or price. The study, focusing on CryptoKitties, suggests a three-dimensional model for value creation, including subjective player value and collective community-created value.

SourceUniversity of Vaasa·DateOct 2, 2024
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.

Digital biomarkers shedding light on seasonality in mood disorders

A new study published in PLOS Mental Health found a relationship between daily sunlight exposure, physical activity, and depressed state. The research used wrist-based activity sensors to collect data from individuals with depression and those without, revealing that more depressed states were associated with lower daytime activity.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Mental Health·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 25, 2024

AI could predict breast cancer risk via ‘zombie cells’

Researchers have developed an AI technology that can analyze mammary tissue biopsies to identify signs of damaged cells, a key indicator of breast cancer risk. The study found the AI was far better at predicting risk than current clinical benchmarks, offering improved treatment options for women.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalThe Lancet Digital Health·DateSep 25, 2024
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.

Signs of developing asthma are evident in the first year of life

A study analyzing health data from 780 infants found that early signs of asthma can be predicted by observing dynamic symptom development during the first year. Genetic predisposition, air pollution, and infections were key risk factors contributing to the child's respiratory system adaptation.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalThe Lancet Digital Health·DateSep 25, 2024

The role of artificial intelligence in advancing intratumoral immunotherapy

The integration of artificial intelligence in intratumoral immunotherapy can refine diagnoses, guide interventions, predict treatment responses, and adapt therapeutic strategies. This enables the enhancement of patient outcomes, including improved survival rates and quality of life.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateSep 19, 2024
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.

African food future looks bright with blueprint for food security

A new study has identified key factors to build food resilience in Sub-Saharan Africa, including diversifying suppliers, empowering local farmers, and promoting sustainable practices. The proposed blueprint aims to enhance self-sufficiency and reduce reliance on external sources.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalFood and Energy Security·TypeObservational study·DateSep 19, 2024

Activity monitoring and lifespan: a longitudinal study

Researchers from the University of California, Davis, present a comprehensive framework for analyzing longitudinal activity and behavior. By employing advanced statistical techniques, they explore the relationship between activity and age-at-death in Mediterranean fruit flies, shedding light on potential links to human lifespan.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeNews article·DateSep 18, 2024

Can Google street view data improve public health?

Researchers analyzed 2 million Google Street View images to explore the utility of digital data in informing public health decision-making. They found that neighborhoods with more crosswalks had lower rates of obesity and diabetes, but no significant link was found between sidewalks and health outcomes.

SourceNew York University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 17, 2024

Ten-year study shows tomosynthesis improves breast cancer detection

A 10-year study found that digital breast tomosynthesis increases cancer detection rates and reduces advanced cancers compared to conventional 2D digital mammography. DBT detected more aggressive cancers at an earlier stage than digital mammography, leading to improved cancer detection and lower recall rates.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateSep 17, 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.

Reducing the cultural bias of AI with one sentence

A Cornell University-led research team found that using a technique called 'cultural prompting' reduces bias in large language models like ChatGPT for over 100 countries. The approach involves specifying a cultural identity directly in prompts, adapting to different cultural norms and values.

SourceCornell University·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateSep 17, 2024

Rice research could make weird AI images a thing of the past

Rice University researchers developed ElasticDiffusion, a method that separates local and global signals to create non-square aspect ratio images without visual imperfections. The new approach can improve consistency and realism in AI-generated images, but still requires significant computational power.

SourceRice University·DateSep 13, 2024
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.

Smartphone-based microscope rapidly reconstructs 3D holograms

A new smartphone-based digital holographic microscope enables precise 3D measurements and has potential applications in medical diagnostics, education, and resource-limited settings. The portable device uses a simple optical system created with a 3D printer and calculates reconstructions based on a smartphone.

SourceOptica·JournalApplied Optics·DateSep 11, 2024

Novel deep learning model developed for battery lifespan prediction

A novel deep learning model, DS-ViT-ESA, was developed to predict lithium battery lifespan with high accuracy using only a small amount of charging cycle data. The model achieved low prediction errors even when tested on unseen charging strategies, demonstrating its zero-shot generalization capability.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalIEEE Transactions on Transportation Electrification·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateSep 11, 2024

Thanks to humans, Salish Sea waters are too noisy for resident orcas to hunt successfully

Underwater noise pollution from human activities significantly impacts the ability of orcas to hunt successfully in the Salish Sea. The study found that increased ambient noise levels, particularly around vessel propellers, interfere with echolocation behavior and hunting efforts. This hindrance affects females more than males, potenti...

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalGlobal Change Biology·TypeObservational study·DateSep 10, 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.

A new screening tool to improve telehealth access and equity

Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University have developed a novel screening tool to measure digital health readiness, addressing barriers to telehealth adoption. The tool assesses technical readiness and quality of care concerns, with promising results in improving equity.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateSep 10, 2024

The Roman siege of Masada lasted just a few weeks, not several years

Researchers at Tel Aviv University used modern technologies to challenge the long-held myth that the Roman siege of Masada lasted three years. The study found that the siege actually lasted no more than a few weeks, using precise measurements and 3D digital modeling to calculate the time it took to build the siege system.

SourceTel-Aviv University·JournalJournal of Roman Archaeology·DateSep 5, 2024

NUS artificial intelligence platform demonstrates promising results in effectively treating a patient with a rare cancer

A team at NUS Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine leveraged an artificial intelligence-derived platform, CURATE.AI, to guide treatment for a patient with Waldenström macroglobulinemia, a rare blood disorder. The trial demonstrated substantial improvement in red blood cell levels and minimised side effects.

SourceNational University of Singapore, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine·Journalnpj Digital Medicine·DateSep 4, 2024
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.

How do new words arise in social media?

Researchers analyzed 650 million tweets to identify new words and tracked their adoption. Words used by central users persisted longer, while those with less central positions had a rapid rise and decline. The study reveals the predictive power of social network position in shaping language.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Complex Systems·TypeObservational study·DateSep 3, 2024
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.

Not sure how to stand out as a leader on Zoom calls? It starts with how you communicate, new study shows

A new study by Binghamton University researchers found that virtual team members who receive inspiring responses from others are more likely to be viewed as emergent leaders. To become an effective leader in a virtual setting, it's essential to pay attention to how the audience responds to your message and support others' ideas.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalAcademy of Management Proceedings·DateAug 27, 2024

Artificial intelligence improves lung cancer diagnosis

A new AI-based digital platform has been developed to analyze tissue sections from lung cancer patients, making diagnosis faster and more accurate. The platform uses algorithms that enable fully automated analysis of digitized tissue samples, allowing for personalized therapy based on molecularly specific genetic changes.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalCell Reports Medicine·TypeImaging analysis·DateAug 23, 2024
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.

Defining the line between virtual and reality

Researchers found that 49% of respondents experienced a moderate to extreme impact on their mental or emotional wellbeing after encountering negative experiences in virtual environments. The study highlights the need for metaverse companies to instill clear regulatory frameworks for safe virtual spaces.

SourceGriffith University·JournalAsian Journal of Criminology·DateAug 15, 2024

New study reveals loophole in digital wallet security—even if rightful cardholder doesn’t use a digital wallet

Researchers at UMass Amherst discovered a vulnerability in digital wallet security that can be exploited by malicious actors even if the rightful cardholder doesn't use a digital wallet. The study found that banks prioritize convenience over security, leaving users' credit cards susceptible to unauthorized transactions.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 14, 2024

Swipe up! Health apps deliver real results en masse

A new study found that digital health tools can improve health and wellbeing by keeping people active, boosting steps, and improving diet and sleep. The research synthesised data from 206,873 people across 47 studies, indicating that electronic and mobile health interventions can help people achieve positive outcomes.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·Journalnpj Digital Medicine·TypeMeta-analysis·DateAug 13, 2024
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.

Engineers bring efficient optical neural networks into focus

EPFL researchers have created an energy-efficient method for nonlinear computations using scattered light from low-power lasers. The new approach is scalable and up to 1,000 times more power-efficient than state-of-the-art digital networks, making it suitable for realizing optical neural networks.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Photonics·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 12, 2024

Women at risk of ‘digital overload’ – new research reveals

A new study by Lancaster University highlights that women are more likely than men to experience 'digital overload' and burnout due to their greater use of digital technologies in both work and family lives. The research emphasizes the need for gender-egalitarian work-from-home arrangements and policies to address this issue.

SourceLancaster University·JournalCommunity Work & Family·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 8, 2024

Pixels to pasture: how AI can help farmers predict their pasture

Researchers developed a machine learning-based system to analyze satellite data and provide farmers with information on pasture productivity and quality. The approach uses remote sensing and AI-driven processing to gather data on large areas, providing a scale-neutral solution for small- and large-scale farms.

SourceThe Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture·JournalRemote Sensing Applications Society and Environment·DateAug 7, 2024

Work emails, calls on golf course worsen performance, study finds

Researchers from Stellenbosch University discovered that using work-related content during golf sessions reduces performance, whereas personal activities have little to no effect. The study suggests a clear distinction between leisure and professional use of smartphones in recreational settings.

SourceStellenbosch University·JournalInternational Journal of Performance Analysis in Sport·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 6, 2024
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Does online dating make relationships more successful?

A new study found that meeting partners online is positively linked to relationship success among those who have social media presence on their relationships. However, the link was absent among individuals without this social media presence, particularly in marital relationships.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalCyberpsychology Behavior and Social Networking·TypeObservational study·DateAug 6, 2024

“Smarter” semiconductor technology for training “smarter” artificial intelligence

Researchers at Pohang University of Science & Technology have developed a novel analog hardware using ECRAM devices that maximizes AI computational performance. Their technique, which uses a three-terminal structure with separate paths for reading and writing data, demonstrates excellent electrical and switching characteristics.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalScience Advances·DateJul 31, 2024

Can a computer tell patients how their multiple sclerosis will progress?

A new study published in PLOS Digital Health found that machine learning models can reliably predict the disability progression of multiple sclerosis. The models were trained on data from 15,240 adults with at least three years of MS history and had an average accuracy of 0.71 ± 0.01.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Digital Health·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 25, 2024
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.

Little trust in Dr. ChatGPT

A new study published in Nature Medicine found that people rate medical advice as less reliable and empathetic when an AI is believed to be involved. Despite this, respondents were still less willing to follow AI-supported recommendations compared to advice from human doctors.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalNature Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 25, 2024

Prevalence and impact of the KIT M541L variant in patients with mastocytosis

Researchers found a significant association between the KIT M541L variant and mastocytosis diagnosis in patients with systemic and cutaneous mastocytosis. The variant was identified in 19 individuals, mostly diagnosed with systemic mastocytosis, but without significant differences in symptomatology.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 24, 2024

How a ‘digital twin’ can make wireless networks faster, more reliable

A new method called D-REC uses a digital twin to predict which data users will need, improving edge caching decisions. The digital twin takes real-time data from the wireless network and conducts simulations to make accurate predictions.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalIEEE Journal on Selected Areas in Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 24, 2024

Nonlinear encoding in diffractive optical processors based on linear materials

The study compares simpler-to-implement nonlinear encoding strategies with the performance of data repetition-based methods, revealing that data repetition enhances inference accuracy but compromises universal linear transformation capability. Phase encoding without data repetition offers a simpler alternative with comparable inference...

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateJul 23, 2024
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.

Digital food ordering drives increased indulgence and spending, USF study finds

A USF study reveals that digital food ordering platforms significantly influence consumer behavior, often leading to more indulgent food choices and increased spending. The study found that 61% of digital orders were unhealthy, and consumers who are more proficient with technology may be less susceptible to the Google Effect.

SourceUniversity of South Florida·JournalJournal of the Academy of Marketing Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 23, 2024

Are AI-chatbots suitable for hospitals?

A study found that large language models, despite accuracy in medical exams, fail to consistently request necessary examinations and often deviate from treatment guidelines. In comparison to human doctors, AI diagnoses achieved lower accuracy rates, highlighting concerns about their suitability for everyday clinical practice.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 22, 2024

Mental health apps may help those waiting for care, study finds

A new study published in JAMA Network Open found that mental health apps can significantly reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, and suicidality in individuals waiting for their initial psychiatric appointment. The study, which involved over 2,000 patients, showed improvement in all groups, regardless of the app used.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJul 18, 2024