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The origin of our digits

A team of researchers found that a regulatory region of the genome, which controls the development of digits in mice and fish, was co-opted by evolution to guide digit formation. This discovery reveals a major evolutionary strategy of reusing existing genetic mechanisms.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature·TypeNews article·DateSep 17, 2025

How footballers’ fingers and height can predict their exercise performance

A new study found that female professional footballers' lactate levels can be predicted by their finger length and height. Research showed that tall women and those with a long ring finger relative to their index finger produced low levels of lactate during exercise.

SourceSwansea University·JournalEarly Human Development·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 6, 2025
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.

Biohybrid hand gestures with human muscles

Researchers at the University of Tokyo developed a biohybrid hand that can move objects and mimic real-life forms, using multiple muscle tissue actuators created from lab-grown muscle tissue. The hand demonstrated its ability to perform complex gestures, including scissor motions, and showed signs of fatigue but recovered within an hour.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalScience Robotics·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 12, 2025

Ultra-sensitive robotic “finger” can take patient pulses, check for lumps

Researchers developed a soft robotic finger that can perform routine doctor office examinations, including taking patient pulses and checking for abnormal lumps. The device's advanced sense of touch allows it to detect stiffness similar to human fingers, enabling early disease detection and more efficient medical exams.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 9, 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
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.

Clear stress patterns among children in dental care

Researchers at the University of Gothenburg have identified clear stress patterns among children undergoing dental treatment, particularly during anesthetic injections. The study used a sensor tool to monitor hand movements and sweating, revealing that invasive treatments were significantly more stressful for longer periods.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·TypeObservational study·DateJun 13, 2024

New study analyzes link between digit ratio and oxygen consumption in footballers

A recent study by Swansea University analyzed the link between digit ratio and oxygen consumption in professional football players. The research found that athletes with longer ring digits relative to their index fingers had more efficient oxygen metabolism, reaching high maximal oxygen consumption during a cardiopulmonary test.

SourceSwansea University·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 16, 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.

Researchers find genetic cause of Raynaud’s phenomenon

A team of researchers discovered two genetic genes that predispose people to Raynaud's phenomenon: ADRA2A and IRX1. These variations cause small blood vessels to contract in response to stress or cold, leading to vasospasms and limited blood flow. The study could lead to effective treatments for the condition.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 12, 2023

“Viking disease” hand disorder may come from Neandertal genes

A new study reveals that Dupuytren's disease, a hand disorder affecting Northern Europeans, has a significant genetic component tied to Neandertal ancestry. Researchers identified three variants of Neandertal origin as major risk factors for the condition.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·TypeContent analysis·DateJun 14, 2023

The Viking disease can be due to gene variants inherited from Neanderthals

Research identified three genetic risk factors for Dupuytren's contracture, a condition affecting fingers, that originated from Neanderthal DNA. The study, based on 7,871 affected individuals and 645,880 healthy controls, provides evidence of the intermingling between Neanderthals and modern humans influencing disease prevalence.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·TypeObservational study·DateJun 14, 2023

Highly dexterous robot hand can operate in the dark -- just like us

Researchers at Columbia University have created a highly dexterous robot hand that combines advanced sensing technology with motor learning algorithms to achieve high dexterity. The hand can perform complex tasks such as rotating an unevenly shaped object without visual feedback, and even operates in dark environments.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·DateApr 27, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Robotic hand can identify objects with just one grasp

Researchers developed a robotic finger with high-resolution sensors that capture data along the entire length of each finger. The three-fingered robotic hand can identify objects after just one grasp, with 85% accuracy, using tactile sensing and machine-learning algorithms.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateApr 3, 2023

Hands in people with diabetes more often affected by trigger finger

A study published in Diabetes Care found that trigger finger is more prevalent among individuals with diabetes, particularly those with poorly regulated blood sugar. The risk of trigger finger increases with poor HbA1C levels, highlighting the potential link between blood sugar dysregulation and this condition.

SourceLund University·JournalDiabetes Care·DateOct 19, 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.

Scientists craft living human skin for robots

Researchers have developed a method to create living human skin on robots, providing a realistic texture and self-healing properties. The skin is made up of collagen and human dermal fibroblasts, which conform to the robot's surface and can even repair wounds with the help of a collagen bandage.

SourceCell Press·JournalMatter·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 9, 2022

Robot skin heals

Researchers from the University of Tokyo have created a controllable robotic finger covered with living skin tissue that can heal itself. The development could lead to new possibilities in advanced manufacturing industries, such as automation and cosmetics, reducing costs, time, and complexity of research.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 9, 2022

Finally, after 40 years – a diagnosis

A 58-year-old woman from Armenia suffered from severe finger pain for over 40 years when knitting, which was later revealed to be caused by a rare benign glomus tumor under her fingernail. The tumor was successfully removed in a 30-minute operation, restoring the patient's quality of life and allowing her to return to her hobby.

SourceThe European Society of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care (ESAIC)·DateJun 3, 2022

Tooth unlocks mystery of Denisovans in Asia

The discovery of a 164,000- to 131,000-year-old Denisovan tooth in Laos provides significant insights into the species' geographic range. The ancient tooth's shape and similarity to teeth found on the Tibetan Plateau suggest that Denisovans inhabited Southeast Asia, particularly northern Laos.

SourceFlinders University·JournalNature Communications·TypeCase study·DateMay 17, 2022
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.

Researchers reveal composition of incense used in Buddhist ritual in Tang Dynasty

Researchers analyzed ancient incense samples from a Tang Dynasty Buddhist temple and found evidence of exotic spices like elemi and frankincense. The findings provide insight into the complex role of incense in religious rituals and court activities during this period.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMay 16, 2022

Novel wearable armband helps users of prosthetic hands to ‘get a grip’

Researchers developed a novel wearable soft robotic armband that conveys artificial sensations of touch to prosthetic hands, enabling users to control multiple grasp functions simultaneously. The study showed improved time efficiency and precision in transporting objects, with haptic feedback being crucial for tasks.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 11, 2022

Fingerprint patterns are linked to limb development genes

Researchers found fingerprints influenced by genes responsible for limb development, shedding light on phenotypical traits in humans. The study identifies 43 genome regions associated with fingerprint patterns and suggests a link between dermatoglyphic patterns and congenital genetic disorders.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·TypeObservational study·DateJan 6, 2022

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
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.

`Oh, snap!’ A record-breaking motion at our fingertips

Researchers discover that finger snaps produce the highest rotational accelerations observed in humans, even faster than professional baseball pitchers. The study explores the role of friction and finds a 'Goldilocks zone' necessary for optimal energy storage.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·TypeObservational study·DateNov 16, 2021

Associations between historically redlined districts, current obstetric outcomes

Researchers analyzed a nine-county birth certificate database in New York state from 2005 to 2018, finding associations between redlined areas and increased risks of preterm birth, low birth weight, and maternal mortality. The study's findings highlight the ongoing impact of historical racism on current health disparities.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateSep 30, 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.

2D:4D ratio is not related to sex-determined finger size differences in men and women

A study of over 7,500 participants refutes the idea that the 2D:4D ratio is influenced by sex hormones, instead suggesting that finger size differences are related to overall growth patterns. The research found no correlation between total finger length and 2D:4D ratio in men and women across different ages and nationalities.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 8, 2021

Research paves the way to early diagnosis of diabetic neuropathy

Researchers found diabetics use half as much force to hold objects, unlike those with other neurological diseases. The study developed a new methodology to measure grip force, providing potential for quick and easy diagnosis of diabetic neuropathy.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalHuman Movement Science·DateJul 7, 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.

A helping hand for working robots

A partially-compliant robot hand using a Crossed Flexural Hinge (CFH) was developed to increase lifting power while minimizing damage in collisions. The CFH-jointed robot hand demonstrated 46.7% more shock absorption than a pin joint-oriented robotic hand and could hold objects weighing up to four kilograms.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalSoft Robotics·DateMay 28, 2021

Slender robotic finger senses buried items

MIT researchers have designed a sharp-tipped robot finger with tactile sensing to identify buried objects in granular material. The Digger Finger successfully sensed the shapes of submerged items and can penetrate sand and rice, with potential applications for finding buried cables or disarming bombs.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateMay 25, 2021

Robotic 'Third Thumb' use can alter brain representation of the hand

Researchers at University College London developed a robotic 'Third Thumb' that allows users to perform dextrous tasks with one hand. The study found that participants' brains adapted to the extra thumb, changing their natural hand movements and reporting it felt like part of their body.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalScience Robotics·DateMay 19, 2021

AI learns to type on a phone like humans

A new AI model precisely replicates human touchscreen typing by simulating eye and finger movements, making it easier to optimize keyboard designs for better typing. The model can also account for different user types, including those with motor impairments, to develop personalized typing aids.

SourceAalto University·DateMay 12, 2021
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.

Tracking down the tiniest of forces: How T cells detect invaders

Researchers observed T cells exerting a tiny force of up to 5 pico-newtons when recognizing antigens, allowing them to determine if the interaction is with the desired antigen. This study provides insights into how T cells function at the molecular level and could lead to significant advances in medicine.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 5, 2021

New Jurassic flying reptile reveals the oldest opposed thumb

A new Jurassic pterosaur species, 'Monkeydactyl', has the oldest true opposed thumb, a novel structure previously not known in pterosaurs. This discovery represents the earliest record of an opposed thumb in Earth's history and adds to the list that darwinopteran pterosaurs evolved such a feature.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 12, 2021
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.

Children's finger length points to mothers' income level

Research suggests that high-income mothers tend to produce higher levels of testosterone, leading to a more masculinized fetus, while low-income mothers produce lower levels of testosterone, resulting in a more feminized fetus. This phenomenon has been linked to increased disease risk, including cardiovascular disease and mortality.

SourceSwansea University·JournalJournal of Biosocial Science·DateFeb 9, 2021

New microscopy concept enters into force

A team led by Alexander Eichler has demonstrated the first scanning force microscope with a vibrating substrate, pushing sensitivity to its fundamental limit. The approach uses a perforated membrane as the 'table' and features an optical interferometer for sensitive measurement.

SourceETH Zurich Department of Physics·JournalPhysical Review Applied·DateFeb 5, 2021
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.

Tactile books adapted for blind children

Researchers have developed tactile books with 3D mini-scenarios that allow blind children to explore and identify objects using gestures and body simulations. This innovative approach has been shown to narrow the perception gap between blind and sighted children, enabling them to recognize objects more easily.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 3, 2021

Getting the right grip: Designing soft and sensitive robotic fingers

Researchers at Ritsumeikan University create soft robotic fingers with integrated sensing mechanisms using multimaterial 3D printing, enabling controlled grasping and manipulation of objects. The design features a self-powered sensor that requires no energy supply, expanding the possibilities for robots in human care and interaction.

SourceRitsumeikan University·JournalNano Energy·DateDec 10, 2020

Tech makes it possible to digitally communicate through human touch

Researchers at Purdue University have developed a technology that enables digital communication through direct touch, allowing for secure payments and information transfer without biometric authentication. This innovation uses an "Electro-Quasistatic range" to confine signals within the body, preventing hacking and interception.

SourcePurdue University·JournalACM Transactions on Computer-Human Interaction·DateDec 3, 2020

Fingerprints' moisture-regulating mechanism strengthens human touch - study

Human fingerprints have a self-regulating moisture mechanism that helps avoid dropping objects, enabling the development of better prosthetic limbs and virtual reality environments. By regulating skin moisture, fingerprints maximize friction on various surfaces, giving primates an evolutionary advantage in dry and wet conditions.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 30, 2020
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.

A pressure sensor at your fingertips

A new nanomesh pressure sensor allows for precise recording of finger movement and touch, without disrupting user sensitivity. The technology has potential applications in sports, medical science, neuroengineering, and the digital archiving of craftwork.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalScience·DateNov 19, 2020

Lungfish fins reveal how limbs evolved

A team of biologists has determined how limbs evolved from fins using embryos of the Australian lungfish. The study suggests that a primitive hand was present in lungfish fins but unique anatomy of limbs with digits only evolved during the rise of tetrapods through changes in embryonic development.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 19, 2020
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.

Wrong number of fingers leads down wrong track

Researchers from the Universities of Bonn and Opole have discovered a fossilized hand with five metacarpal bones in a Late Triassic temnospondyl, Metoposaurus krasiejowensis. This finding is significant because it challenges the long-held assumption that early ancestors of modern frogs and salamanders had only four fingers. The discove...

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalJournal of Anatomy·DateJul 24, 2020

3D hand-sensing wristband signals future of wearable tech

Researchers from Cornell University and the University of Wisconsin, Madison, have developed a wrist-mounted device called FingerTrak that continuously tracks the entire human hand in 3D using thermal cameras. The technology has potential applications in sign language translation, virtual reality, mobile health, and human-robot interac...

SourceCornell University·DateJul 20, 2020

Wearable-tech glove translates sign language into speech in real time

A UCLA bioengineer designed a glove-like device that can translate American Sign Language into English speech in real-time using a smartphone app. The system uses thin sensors to pick up hand motions and finger placements, which are then translated into spoken words at the rate of about one word per second.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalNature Electronics·DateJun 29, 2020
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 deep-learned E-skin decodes complex human motion

A deep-learning powered single-strained electronic skin sensor captures complex five-finger motions in real-time, creating a virtual 3D hand. The sensor's rapid situation learning system ensures stable operation regardless of its position on the skin.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 18, 2020