Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Last common ancestor, no matter its feet, could have been a vertical climber

A study from Ohio State University found that sooty mangabey monkeys, with feet similar to those of humans, can climb vertical tree trunks with ease. The research suggests that the last common ancestor of humans and chimpanzees could have been a vertical climber, challenging existing theories about foot structure and forest environment...

SourceOhio State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 17, 2026

‘Super shoes’ can improve running performance but may contribute to injury

Researchers at Mass General Brigham found that advanced footwear technology improves running performance in elite distance runners, but also causes subtle changes in running mechanics linked to bone stress injuries. Rotating shoes and gradually adapting to AFT may help reduce potential injury risk while optimizing performance.

SourceMass General Brigham·JournalPM&R·TypeObservational study·DateMay 5, 2026

Mantis-leg-inspired smart insole integrating closed-loop power supply for advanced wearable gait diagnostics

A biomimetic smart insole system integrates high-resolution sensing, autonomous energy supply, and AI-assisted gait diagnosis to monitor lower limb function and disease progression. The system achieves ultra-low detection limits and maintains mechanical stability, addressing existing bottlenecks in wearable gait monitoring.

SourceResearch·JournalResearch·TypeNews article·DateMar 19, 2026

Sniffing out the cause of keratoderma-associated foot odor

Researchers at Kobe University have identified a specific bacterial strain, Staphylococcus epidermidis and Corynebacterium tuberculostearicum, as the primary causes of foot odor in Nagashima-type palmoplantar keratosis. Topical application of benzoyl peroxide reduces odor by decreasing C. tuberculostearicum levels.

SourceKobe University·JournalJournal of Investigative Dermatology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 22, 2026
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.

New 3D imaging system could address limitations of MRI, CT and ultrasound

Researchers developed an innovative noninvasive technique that combines ultrasound and photoacoustic imaging to capture images of both tissue and blood vessels. The technology has the potential to address current gaps in medical imaging, providing faster and more comprehensive imaging at meaningful depths.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 16, 2026

Research reveals hidden diversity of E. coli driving diabetic foot infections

A comprehensive genomic characterisation of E. coli strains isolated from diabetic foot ulcers reveals high diversity and antibiotic resistance. The study provides valuable insights into the specific pathogens involved in diabetic foot disease and suggests potential targets for improved treatment strategies.

SourceKing's College London·JournalMicrobiology Spectrum·DateJan 13, 2026

Footprints of tail-clubbed armored dinosaurs found for the first time

Researchers have discovered footprints of ankylosaurid armoured dinosaurs, known as Ruopodosaurus clava, in the Canadian Rockies. The 100-million-year-old fossilized footprints provide evidence that tail-clubbed ankylosaurs were alive and well in North America during a previously unknown period.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalJournal of Vertebrate Paleontology·TypeObservational study·DateApr 14, 2025
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

A modified Delphi consensus of the Youth Fitness International Test (YFIT) battery

Researchers from the University of Granada and the Public Health Agency of Canada identified the most important physical fitness tests for children and adolescents, with a degree of scientific agreement exceeding 85%. The top tests include the 20-meter shuttle run test, handgrip strength test, standing long jump test, and body mass index.

SourceJournal of Sport and Health Science·JournalJournal of Sport and Health Science·TypeSurvey·DateDec 17, 2024

Pterosaurs needed feet on the ground to become giants

A University of Leicester study has found that the ability to walk efficiently on the ground played a crucial role in determining how large pterosaurs could grow. Early pterosaurs were adapted for climbing, but later species developed changes to their hands and feet that allowed them to thrive on land, leading to some becoming gigantic.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalCurrent Biology·DateOct 4, 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.

Large theropods thrived near South Pole, Australian tracks show

A discovery of 18 theropod tracks and four ornithopod tracks in the Wonthaggi Formation reveals that large carnivores roamed polar environments, feeding on prey like smaller dinosaurs, fish, and turtles. The finds confirm that a variety of dinosaurs lived and walked on the ground where their bones were found.

SourceEmory University·JournalAlcheringa An Australasian Journal of Palaeontology·TypeObservational study·DateSep 9, 2024

Too much treadmill? This could help your shin splints

A randomized controlled trial found that four weeks of outdoor gait training, combined with home exercises, improved running biomechanics and reduced the time feet were in contact with the ground. This technique may help patients improve their stride and reduce pain associated with shin splints.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalJournal of Biomechanics·DateJul 2, 2024
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

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.

Humans evolved to walk with an extra spring in our step

A global team of scientists found that the recoil of a flexible human foot arch repositions the ankle upright for more effective walking and running. This discovery could help doctors improve treatments for present-day patients' foot problems, while also suggesting therapeutic avenues for people with rigid arches due to injury or illness.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 30, 2023

Hold your horseshoes: Paper shows shoeing improves gait quality

A study by UConn researchers found a significant improvement in shod horses, with better movement and reduced lameness scores. Shoeing with plain stamp shoes improved maximum hock angles and gait quality, indicating potential benefits for athletic performance.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalJournal of Animal Science·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 29, 2023

3D-printed insoles measure sole pressure directly in the shoe

A new invention by ETH Zurich researchers uses 3D printing to create customized insoles with integrated pressure sensors that can measure foot pressure during various activities. This allows for more accurate and efficient creation of custom insoles, potentially improving athletic performance and treating musculoskeletal pain.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 15, 2023
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.

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.

Surgery is best to prevent amputations in certain people with poor leg circulation

Research at American Heart Association Scientific Sessions 2022 found that bypass surgery improves blood flow to legs and feet, reducing major amputations and repeat procedures by 65% and 27%, respectively. The study of 1,830 patients with chronic limb-threatening ischemia concluded that surgical bypass is a better option for those wit...

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateNov 7, 2022

”No pain, no gain” approach improves walking ability with peripheral artery disease

A new study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that walking for exercise at a pace that induces leg pain or discomfort improves walking ability among people with peripheral artery disease. The study involved 264 participants who walked at home at either a comfortable pace or a pace that induced leg symptom...

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateJul 27, 2022
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.

Study reveals hierarchy between the body's limbs and the voice

Researchers at Aarhus University found a hierarchical relationship between motor function and coordination of the voice, hands, and feet. This hierarchy determines which rhythm and beat combinations are easy to perform, regardless of musical expertise.

SourceAarhus University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeObservational study·DateJun 20, 2022
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Fat injections could treat common cause of foot pain

A novel technique transplants patient fat into the sole to reduce plantar fasciitis symptoms, improving quality of life and sports activities. The study laid groundwork for a larger clinical trial with promising results.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalPlastic & Reconstructive Surgery·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJan 25, 2022

AAN issues guideline for treatment of painful diabetic neuropathy

The American Academy of Neurology has issued a guideline on oral and topical treatments for painful diabetic neuropathy, updating the 2011 AAN guideline. The guideline recommends several drug classes, including tricyclic antidepressants, serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, gabapentinoids, and sodium channel blockers.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·TypeLiterature review·DateDec 27, 2021

WVU research promotes healthier poultry and environment

Researchers at West Virginia University have developed a wood boiler system that improves bird health and reduces carbon dioxide emissions by drying litter and creating dry heat. The system has the potential to replace propane heating systems in poultry farms, benefiting both animal welfare and the environment.

SourceWest Virginia University·DateNov 30, 2021
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.

Amputation rates higher for people with PAD who are poor or Black; other health gaps noted in special issue

A study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that people with peripheral artery disease (PAD) living in poor or Black metropolitan areas have higher amputation rates. The analysis also noted significant disparities in healthcare access and quality among different racial and socioeconomic groups.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateAug 25, 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.

Surprising spider hair discovery may inspire stronger adhesives

A new study in Frontiers in Mechanical Engineering found that the hairs on spider legs exhibit unique adhesive properties, with each hair showing different strengths and weaknesses on various surfaces. The researchers believe this diversity may be key to how spiders can climb diverse surfaces.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Mechanical Engineering·DateJun 18, 2021

Bionic reconstruction: New foot for 'Mia' the bearded vulture

Scientists at MedUni Vienna have successfully developed a bionic foot for a bearded vulture named Mia using osseointegration, a technique that directly attaches the prosthetic to the bone. The procedure has enabled Mia to regain her ability to land and walk with both feet, making her the first 'bionic bird'.

SourceMedical University of Vienna·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 11, 2021

Itch insight: Skin itch mechanisms differ on hairless versus hairy skin

Studies show distinct neuron populations control itching in hairy and hairless skin, offering hope for targeted therapies. Researchers aim to develop treatments that block itch-inducing neurons, improving quality of life for patients with chronic skin itch conditions.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 21, 2021

Using spatial distance strategically with luxury and popular product displays

Researchers found that maintaining a distance between products and consumers boosts the perceived value of luxury items, while proximity increases the perceived sincerity of popular products. Marketers can leverage visual cues to enhance value and increase consumer willingness to pay by strategically matching distance with brand image.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateApr 23, 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.

Little Foot fossil shows early human ancestor clung closely to trees

A new study on the Little Foot fossil suggests that early human ancestors used their arms to bear substantial weight while climbing trees. The research, published in the Journal of Human Evolution, analyzed the upper body of the 3.67 million-year-old Australopithecus individual and found evidence of apelike characteristics.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalJournal of Human Evolution·DateApr 20, 2021
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.

Scientists reveal regenerative treatment path for diabetic foot ulcers

Researchers discovered a powerful approach for treating diabetic foot ulcers by targeting a gene that controls tissue growth and regeneration. The new treatment has shown promising results in animal models and human skin equivalents, and may hold potential for repairing internal organs.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateMar 22, 2021

With masks on, three feet is just as safe as six feet apart in Massachusetts schools

A statewide study in Massachusetts public schools found no significant difference in COVID-19 case rates between districts with 3-foot versus 6-foot physical distancing policies with universal mask mandates. The study suggests that lower physical distancing policies can be adopted without negatively impacting student or staff safety.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateMar 11, 2021
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.

Lead up to volcanic eruption in Galapagos captured in rare detail

Scientists captured data over 13 years as the volcano's magma chamber gradually refilled, stressing the surrounding crust and creating earthquakes. The study provides new insights into the Galapagos Islands' most active volcano, Sierra Negra, and its caldera resurgence.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 2, 2021

Moiré patterns facilitate discovery of novel insulating phases

Physicists at UC Riverside created moiré patterns by overlaying WS2 and WSe2 layers, leading to insulating states with varying electron occupancy fractions. Strong interactions between electrons restrict mobile electrons into local cells, resulting in insulating behavior. Similar behaviors can occur for other occupancy fractions.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature Physics·DateFeb 15, 2021

Small mammals climb higher to flee warming temperatures in the Rockies

In a new study, researchers found that small mammals in the Rocky Mountains are shifting their ranges upward by over 400 feet due to climate change. The golden-mantled ground squirrel and other species are climbing higher to escape warming temperatures, with some moving up by as much as 1,100 feet.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalEcology·DateFeb 11, 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.

When rhinos fly: Upside down the right way for transport

Researchers find that hanging black rhinoceroses upside down improves ventilation to a small degree, enhancing the safety of these animals during capture and anesthesia. The study's findings have significant implications for conservation efforts in remote areas where helicopter-assisted aerial transport is often used.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of Wildlife Diseases·DateFeb 1, 2021