Add BrightSurf on Google Email

New test allows individualized profiles of cigarette smoking

A new test allows for more accurate estimation of smokers' mouth-level exposure to cigarette smoke, which may aid in developing custom-tailored quitting strategies. The method uses a surrogate compound found in tobacco filters to gauge exposure to the thousands of chemicals present in cigarette smoke.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateAug 25, 2010

Sign language speakers' hands, mouths operate separately

A new study on British Sign Language found that signers make different mistakes in the sign and in mouthing, indicating separate brain processing for hand and lip movements. Researchers suggest that this suggests the signer is processing two languages simultaneously.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateAug 23, 2010
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.

1 in 4 not covering coughs, sneezes

Research presented at the International Conference on Emerging Infectious Diseases found that less than 5% of people covered their mouth using recommended methods during the H1N1 pandemic. Medical students observed a low prevalence of respiratory hygiene behaviors in public areas, with most people covering their mouths with their hands.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·DateJul 12, 2010

Recognition of facial expressions is not universal

A study by the University of Montreal found that Caucasians and Asians recognize faces in distinct ways, with Caucasians analyzing facial features like eyes and mouth, while Asians consider the entire face. This difference affects their ability to identify emotions, particularly negative ones.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 26, 2010

Lopsided fish show that symmetry is only skin deep

Researchers discovered a genetic locus in cichlids that determines left or right jaw asymmetry, providing a distinct feeding advantage. The study found that these lopsided fish develop mouths directed to the left or right, enabling them to feed on the opposite side of their prey.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Biology·DateJan 25, 2010
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.

Want to convince? Use abstract rather than concrete language

Consumers tend to respond more favorably to abstract language than concrete descriptions when discussing products. In word-of-mouth messages, people use different types of language depending on whether they like or dislike the brand. Abstract language is associated with stronger buying intentions, especially for positive experiences.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateJan 19, 2010

Eating and drinking during labor: Let women decide

A systematic review found no evidence of risks or benefits associated with eating and drinking during low-risk labor. Researchers conclude that women should be able to make their own decisions about food and fluids during labor.

SourceWiley·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·DateJan 19, 2010

Researchers discover new 'golden ratios' for female facial beauty

New psychology research finds two optimal ratios for female facial beauty: one for length and width. The study reveals that faces judged more attractive have a vertical eye-mouth distance of approximately 36% of their face's length and horizontal eye-distance of approximately 46% of their face's width.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalVision Research·DateDec 16, 2009

Birds call to warn friends and enemies

Researchers at UC Davis studied birds' alarm calls to determine their purpose. The findings suggest that these vocalizations serve both to alert other birds to danger and to warn off predators.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·DateDec 3, 2009
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.

Facial expressions show language barriers too

Research finds that Easterners and Westerners have different ways of recognizing facial expressions, with Easterners neglecting the mouth and focusing on the eyes. This complexity highlights that human communication of emotion is more nuanced than previously thought.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 13, 2009

Freshwater fish at the top of the food chain evolve more slowly

Researchers found that freshwater fish like largemouth bass, which feed primarily on fish, have remained relatively unchanged over time. Once they evolved the optimal size and shape for catching fish, natural selection kept them in an evolutionary holding pattern.

SourceNational Evolutionary Synthesis Center (NESCent)·JournalEvolution·DateJul 28, 2009

Our brain looks at eyes first to identify a face

A study by Matthias S. Keil found that the brain extracts key information for facial identification primarily from the eyes, while the mouth and nose are secondary. The analysis suggests that faces are responsible for the brain's resolution preference, with a optimum resolution of around 30x30 pixels.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateJul 20, 2009
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Wagner's 'difficult' reputation unwarranted says research

A new study finds that Richard Wagner used the acoustics of the soprano voice to create music drama with improved intelligibility and ease of production. Wagner's operas often featured vowels sung with an open mouth, which were matched to high notes in a way that enhanced both performer and listener experience.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalThe Journal of the Acoustical Society of America·DateJul 1, 2009
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.

Male or female? Coloring provides gender cues

A recent study published in the Journal of Vision found that subtle coloring patterns around the eyes and mouth play a crucial role in rapid gender discrimination. Researchers discovered that the shades of reds and greens in these areas lead to faster gender identification, contradicting previous assumptions about facial features.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalJournal of Vision·DateMay 27, 2009
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.

Autism skews developing brain with synchronous motion and sound

Researchers found that individuals with autism tend to stare at people's mouths rather than their eyes due to the attraction of audiovisual synchrony. This phenomenon is more pronounced in toddlers with autism, who exhibit a strong preference for lip-sync, whereas unaffected peers focus on socially meaningful movements.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Mental Health·JournalNature·DateMar 29, 2009

Human papillomavirus lesion identified at the dentist

A study published in General Dentistry has found that the VELscope device can detect oral HPV lesions, allowing for early detection and treatment of oral cancer. Regular dental check-ups and screenings are crucial in preventing and detecting oral cancer.

SourceAcademy of General Dentistry·JournalEuropean Journal of General Dentistry·DateFeb 18, 2009

Whom do we fear or trust?

Scientists have developed a computer program to analyze human faces for trustworthiness and dominance, identifying key features such as a U-shaped mouth and surprised eyes. This research has implications for various fields, including sales and criminal justice, where facial expressions can greatly impact perceptions.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 5, 2008
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Newly described 'dragon' protein could be key to bird flu cure

Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory have crystallized and characterized the H5N1 virus's RNA polymerase protein, a crucial component in viral replication. The study reveals an unexpected relationship between two subunits of the protein, which could inspire therapies to prevent the spread of bird flu.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature·DateJul 15, 2008

Discovery explains how cold sore virus hides during inactive phase

Duke University scientists discovered how the herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV1) hides during its inactive phase, using molecular understanding to provide a framework for studying latent viruses. The findings also offer hope for a potential cure by activating and killing the dormant virus with a new drug.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalNature·DateJul 2, 2008

MIT solves gravity-defying bird beak mystery

Shorebirds like phalaropes exploit contact angle hysteresis and capillary ratchets to propel food into their mouths, overcoming gravity. The efficiency of this process depends on beak shape and wettability, making it vulnerable to oil spills.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateMay 15, 2008

Sight, sound processed together and earlier than previously thought

Researchers at Duke University Medical Center have discovered that auditory and visual information are integrated in the brain before being sent to the cortex. The findings suggest that hearing and vision may be more closely linked than previously believed, with implications for understanding how we perceive the world around us.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 29, 2007
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.

'Alien' jaws help moray eels feed

Researchers discovered moray eels use a second set of jaws to grab food, then bring it back to the esophagus for swallowing. This unusual feeding behavior is unlike most fish, which rely on suction.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalNature·DateSep 5, 2007

How dogs don't ape

New research shows that dogs selectively imitate actions, adjusting to circumstances like human infants. The study found that dogs use their mouths instead of paws when the demonstrator's mouth is occupied.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 26, 2007

Halos and horns: Fixing the 'taste' of diet soda

University of Illinois researchers identify mouth-feel as key factor in diet soda taste, finding ingredient that gives body without adding calories. Flavour plays a crucial role in masking the mouth-feel difference, making lemon-lime flavor more appealing.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Food Science·DateApr 25, 2007

Clinical studies evaluate potential treatments for mouth ulcers

A clinical study found that a cream commonly used to treat eczema may be effective in treating oral erosive lichen planus, a severe inflammatory condition. Another study showed limited benefit of pentoxifylline in treating recurrent apthous stomatitis, but the treatment was associated with significant adverse effects.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Dermatology·DateApr 16, 2007
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.

Research finds that culture is key to interpreting facial emotions

A study by University of Alberta researchers found that cultural differences affect how people interpret facial cues, with Japanese focusing on eyes and Americans on mouth. The findings suggest that understanding culture is essential when interpreting facial expressions.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalJournal of Experimental Social Psychology·DateApr 4, 2007

Drug labels are prescriptions for mistakes

A study found that patients with lower literacy and those taking multiple medications had difficulty understanding prescription label instructions. The researchers recommend redesigning label text and format, as well as a system approach to verify patient understanding, to improve quality care.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateNov 29, 2006
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.

Research partnership to protect the Coorong

A multi-million dollar research partnership aims to protect the Coorong's ecological health and conserve threatened species through detailed studies of the region's ecology and water regime. The project will produce ecosystem-level models for predicting future changes in the wetland.

SourceCSIRO Australia·DateAug 28, 2006

Robot set loose to film your insides

A new robot system developed by Dmitry Oleynikov and colleagues enables surgeons to visualize the abdominal cavity using minimal incisions, allowing for less trauma and potentially reducing scars. The device is controlled from a console and can be inserted through small incisions, allowing for more flexibility in surgical procedures.

SourceNew Scientist·JournalThe New Scientist·DateJan 25, 2006
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.

Small-bowel obstruction

Researchers found that patients with partial small-bowel obstruction who received oral therapy had a higher success rate of treatment without surgery (91% vs. 76%) and shorter hospital stays compared to those receiving standard care alone. The study suggests a new management strategy for similar patients, leading to reduced surgical in...

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateNov 7, 2005

Where the brain combines what's heard and felt

Scientists from Max Planck Institute discovered that the auditory cortex integrates sensory information from multiple sources simultaneously, strengthening activity with tactile stimulation. This finding suggests that the brain processes sensory data early to prevent false perceptions.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNeuron·DateOct 19, 2005

Nose odors and mouth odors: The brain distinguishes

Researchers found that brain responds differently to odors introduced through the nose versus the mouth, with distinct brain regions activated. The study suggests that olfactory referral illusion is robust and cognitively impenetrable, and may play a role in flavor perception.

SourceCell Press·JournalNeuron·DateAug 17, 2005
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.

Genetic discovery could lead to drought-resistant plants

Researchers have discovered a key gene controlling how leaves close their surface pores, leading to improved understanding of plant responses to climate. This finding has significant implications for crop breeding and studying evolutionary responses to drought.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJul 18, 2005

Trio of plant genes prevent 'too many mouths'

A trio of plant genes have been found to play a crucial role in regulating the density of microscopic pores called stomata, which are essential for photosynthesis. By understanding how these genes function, scientists can gain insights into how plants evolved to survive on land and how they adapt to changing environmental conditions.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalScience·DateJul 7, 2005

Visual screening could prevent 37,000 deaths from mouth cancer worldwide

A new study suggests that regular oral visual screening can significantly reduce mortality from mouth cancer, particularly among tobacco/alcohol users. The research found a 50% increase in 5-year survival rates and a 34% reduction in mortality for those screened, highlighting the potential of this simple yet effective procedure to save...

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateJun 2, 2005

Good, bad and indifferent

A study published in Journal of Consumer Research reveals how consumers evaluate an experience by drawing connections between positive and negative events. The research suggests that people find comfort in ambivalence when a bad experience is compared immediately to a good one, providing valuable insights for marketing professionals.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateJun 2, 2005
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.

Oral bacteria may predict pregnancy outcomes

Researchers found that higher levels of Actinomyces naeslundii gsp2 in pregnant women's saliva were linked to lower birth weights and preterm deliveries. In contrast, higher levels of Lactobacillus casei during pregnancy positively affected birth weight.

SourceAmerican Academy of Periodontology·JournalJournal of Periodontology·DateMar 23, 2005

Orthodontists must brace against back pain

A new study published in Clinical Biomechanics reveals that orthodontists are at risk of musculoskeletal disorders due to prolonged sitting and repetitive tasks, with males bearing heavier loads than females. The research highlights the need for better work layout and equipment design to mitigate this risk.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalClinical Biomechanics·DateMar 3, 2005

How a question can persuade consumers to buy

A study by Patti Williams and colleagues found that consumers can be persuaded through intention questions, but only if they attribute persuasive intent to the question. The authors conclude that consumers can learn to recognize and resist such manipulation.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateJan 7, 2005

Most popular snuff brands also have big nicotine doses

Researchers found that top-selling moist snuff brands contained high amounts of free-base nicotine, while the relationship between market share and nicotine content in loose-leaf tobacco was less consistent. The study highlights the importance of regulating nicotine levels in smokeless tobacco products to prevent addiction.

SourceCenter for Advancing Health·JournalNicotine & Tobacco Research·DateDec 16, 2003
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.

Biological clock more influenced by temperature than light

Scientists found that the biological clock in mice and rats responds to temperature changes rather than light signals. This discovery has significant implications for understanding jet lag and could lead to new treatments for related conditions.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalJournal of Neurophysiology·DateJul 14, 2003

Student-built pill dispenser gives patient more independence

A team of Johns Hopkins students designed and built a computer-guided pill dispensing machine for a quadriplegic man, allowing him to take medication independently. The device, which uses a mouth stick and slam switch, enables the user to select medication and dispense it through a tube into their mouth.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·DateJun 27, 2003
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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