Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Dressing up like a peacock: Bright colors by nanotechnology

Scientists at KIT replicate nanostructures that produce vibrant colors independent of viewing angle, suitable for textile, packaging and cosmetic industries. The innovation could replace toxic pigments with sustainable alternatives.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalAdvanced Optical Materials·DateNov 17, 2016

Red is good -- the brain uses color to help us choose what to eat

A study by SISSA researchers found that our brains use color to guide food choices, with red foods being perceived as more calorie-dense. The visual system's trichromatic nature and evolutionary history support this preference.

SourceInternational School of Advanced Studies (SISSA)·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 14, 2016

The color of birds

Researchers found that birds in tropical climates are not more colorful than those in temperate climates. Instead, birds in harsh desert environments have evolved fancier colors to attract mates quickly. Birds in humid forest environments are darker in color overall.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalGlobal Ecology and Biogeography·DateNov 3, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Two-year results of the COLOR trial presented at TCT 2016

A large-scale multicenter prospective study found that PCI on coronary artery lipid-rich plaque (LRP) detected by near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) was not associated with subsequent major adverse cardiac events (MACE). The study suggests that NIRS-defined LRP is a safe and stable condition, contrary to previous autopsy-based studies.

SourceCardiovascular Research Foundation·DateNov 1, 2016

New advances in imaging to enhance the detection of GI cancers

Researchers have developed a new imaging technique using hyperspectral imaging to detect and characterize early cancerous changes in the gastrointestinal tract. The technique, which involves increasing color channels during endoscopy, has the potential to improve specificity of lesion identification.

SourceSpink Health·DateOct 16, 2016

Going green is for girls -- but branding can make men eco-friendly

New research finds that men are more open to purchasing environmental products if their masculinity is boosted through branding. The study used various approaches, including affirming masculinity and changing product associations, to demonstrate the effectiveness of rebranding green products as masculine.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateAug 25, 2016
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.

'Liquid fingerprinting' technique instantly identifies unknown liquids

A new company, Validere, has commercialized a sensing technology invented at Harvard University that can perform instant characterization of unknown liquids. The technology, called Watermark Ink (W-INK), exploits nanostructured materials to distinguish liquids by their surface tension.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 4, 2016

Ultrasensitive sensor using N-doped graphene

Researchers developed an ultrasensitive chemical sensor using N-doped graphene and Raman spectroscopy, detecting trace amounts of molecules in solutions. The technique significantly enhances the Raman signal, allowing for detection of organic molecules at very low concentrations.

SourcePenn State·JournalScience Advances·DateJul 22, 2016

When red evokes mischief

A new study found that people with high sensation-seeking personalities are more likely to engage in prank behavior when encountering the color red. This contradicts previous research suggesting that red leads to compliant behavior. The findings have implications for health campaigns, such as anti-smoking and safe sex initiatives.

SourceSociety for Consumer Psychology·JournalJournal of Consumer Psychology·DateJul 8, 2016
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.

Weird pupils let octopuses see their colorful gardens

Researchers propose that cephalopods' U-shaped or dumbbell-shaped pupils can judge color by accentuating chromatic aberration, allowing them to focus on specific wavelengths. This unique visual system may enable camouflage and mimicry despite being 'colorblind'.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 5, 2016

Camouflage artists, in color

A study by Harvard University scientists suggests that cephalopods can perceive color through chromatic aberration, which allows them to detect different wavelengths of light. This mechanism enables the animals to create vivid camouflage abilities despite being limited to black and white vision.

SourceHarvard University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 4, 2016

MRI technique induces strong, enduring visual association

Researchers at Brown University used a novel MRI technique to induce people to perceive colors that weren't really there, targeting early visual areas of the brain. The study showed that associations were learned strongly enough to persist for up to five months.

SourceBrown University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 30, 2016
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.

Living, non-living, transformed ... simply food

Researchers Rumiati and Foroni review how food is represented in the brain, exploring theories on sensory-functional and domain-specific categorization. They find that the 'foodstuff' category can help disambiguate among approaches and highlight the importance of variables like transformation and perceived calories.

SourceInternational School of Advanced Studies (SISSA)·JournalPsychonomic Bulletin & Review·DateJun 27, 2016

Squeezing out opal-like colors by the mile

Researchers develop Bend-Induced-Oscillatory-Shearing (BIOS) process to produce hundreds of meters of polymer opals on a roll-to-roll process, exhibiting chameleon-like color-shifting properties. The material has potential applications in smart clothing, building coatings, and banknote security.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 3, 2016

Do bed bugs have favorite colors?

Researchers found that bed bugs strongly preferred red and black colors, but avoided green and yellow due to their resemblance to brightly-lit areas. The study's findings may have implications for controlling bed bug populations by using color preference in traps.

SourceEntomological Society of America·JournalJournal of Medical Entomology·DateApr 25, 2016

Building a CRISPR rainbow

Researchers have developed a new technology using CRISPR/Cas9 to label and track up to seven different genomic locations in live cells. This allows for real-time study of chromosome dynamics and gene expression, enabling better understanding of biological processes and health outcomes.

SourceUMass Chan Medical School·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateApr 20, 2016
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.

A new system for color vision

Researchers found a previously unknown type of neuron called J-RGCs that signal color to the brain by comparing signals from ultraviolet cones and rods. This discovery may help explain why humans perceive the color blue in dim light, as proposed by Van Gogh's Starry Night painting.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateApr 14, 2016

Expectation may be essential to memory formation

Researchers propose expectancy-based binding theory, which suggests that subjects remember features without necessarily attaching them to the target object. This contradicts traditional theories of object-based and feature-based encoding., Attention alone is not enough for accurate memory recall, according to the study.

SourcePenn State·JournalCognition·DateMar 28, 2016

Fifteen shades of photoreceptor in a butterfly's eye

Researchers found that Common Bluebottles have 15 photoreceptor classes, one for each wavelength of light, allowing them to distinguish millions of colors. This discovery reveals a unique system in butterfly vision, where four classes are used for routine color vision and eleven others detect specific stimuli.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and Evolution·DateMar 8, 2016

Ruby red improves in the microwave oven

Researchers tested a new way to treat colour problems in rubies by using microwaves. The study found that the microwave treatment led to visible changes in the gemstones' colour and structure.

SourceSpringer·DateMar 2, 2016

Perception: Brain integrates features directly to patterns

A philosopher at Ruhr-University Bochum argues that our brain constructs complex contents immediately upon spotting an object, integrating typical features into a pattern. This process is evident in both individual and social perception, and has evolutionary significance.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalSynthese·DateFeb 22, 2016
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.

New study reveals that prelinguistic infants can categorize colors

A new study reveals that prelinguistic infants (5-7 months) exhibit brain activity in response to color categories, indicating an innate ability to categorize colors. This finding suggests that color perception is independent of language and can develop independently of linguistic acquisition.

SourceTohoku University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 10, 2016

Aluminum nanoparticles could improve electronic displays

Researchers develop aluminum nanostructure pixels using plasmon resonance to create vibrant colors across the entire visible spectrum. The new approach enables the production of high-resolution images and improved display performance.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Nano·DateJan 6, 2016

Preferences for changing landscape color, complexity determined

A study by Rob Kuper found that people prefer landscapes with green colors and moderate complexity, especially during winter. Landscape designers can use evergreen trees, colorful berries, or plants that emerge early to create year-round visual appeal.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateDec 27, 2015

Oregon research suggests color affects ethical judgments of brands

A study by University of Oregon and University of Cincinnati researchers found that colors like blue are associated with eco-friendliness, while green can have the opposite effect. The findings suggest that color in a brand's logo influences consumer judgments on environmental friendliness.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalJournal of Business Ethics·DateDec 3, 2015
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.

New technology colors in the infrared rainbow

Researchers at Duke University have developed a technology that brings true color to infrared imaging systems, capturing specific wavelengths from the visible to the infrared spectrum. This allows advanced thermal imaging systems to be produced faster and cheaper, with higher sensitivity.

SourceDuke University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateNov 9, 2015

Bright idea for lowlight photography

University of Utah engineers develop a new color filter that lets in three times more light than conventional filters, resulting in cleaner and more accurate pictures taken in lowlight. The filter can be used for smartphone cameras and industrial applications.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalOptica·DateOct 29, 2015

Signs point to imminent public health workforce exit

A new study reveals that 38% of state public health workers plan to leave the workforce by 2020, with those aged 25-40, racial and ethnic minorities, and those with fewer than 10 years of experience being most likely to exit. The study also highlights pay disparities between different groups in the public health sector.

SourceAssociation of State and Territorial Health Officials·JournalJournal of Public Health Management and Practice·DateOct 28, 2015

Subliminal effect of facial color on fearful faces

Researchers at Toyohashi University of Technology found that facial color affects early stage of subliminal processing of facial expression. Facial bluish color increases N170 latency effect compared to natural color, indicating modulation of fearful expressions in the subliminal condition.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalNeuroscience·DateOct 22, 2015
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.

People worldwide -- even nomads in Tanzania -- think of colors the same way

Researchers found that people worldwide, including nomadic hunter-gatherers in Tanzania, group colors into categories similar to those used by other cultures. This study suggests a combination of nature and nurture influences color naming, revealing cultural universals despite dramatic diversity within each culture.

SourceOhio State University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateSep 10, 2015

Feeling blue and seeing blue: Sadness may impair color perception

Research suggests that feeling sadness can change how we perceive color, with participants who were induced to feel sad being less accurate in identifying colors on the blue-yellow axis than those who were led to feel amused or emotionally neutral.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateSep 2, 2015

Smoke from western fires wafts eastward

Smoke from western fires mixes with atmospheric particles to obscure landmasses in eastern states, altering sunset colors. Residents notice increased reddish hues due to filtering of shorter wavelength light by smaller smoke particles.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 24, 2015

Look at me! Forest-dwelling anoles 'glow' to attract attention

A new study found that male anole lizards' glowing dewlaps make their visual signals easier to detect by females in shaded habitats. The translucent coloration allows light to pass through, increasing the signal-to-noise ratio and making the lizard's colors more conspicuous against a visually noisy background.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalFunctional Ecology·DateAug 14, 2015
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.

Animal-eye view of the world revealed with new visual software

Researchers developed software to analyze colors and patterns as animals see them, useful for studying animal and plant signaling, camouflage, and predation. The software converts digital photos to animal vision, providing a user-friendly solution for scientists.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalMethods in Ecology and Evolution·DateAug 6, 2015

Female stink bugs 'select' the color of their eggs

Researchers discovered that female stink bugs change the color of their eggs depending on the surrounding light environment. The darker-colored eggs, which are not darkened by melanin but a previously unknown pigment, offer protection against UV radiation when laid on top of leaves.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJul 23, 2015
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.

Surprise -- subtle distractors may divert action more than overt ones

Researchers found that subtle visual distractions caused significant deviations from the intended path, contrary to intuition. The study's findings suggest a new phenomenon where the brain employs a suppression mechanism to tune out bigger distractions, but struggles with less apparent ones.

SourceBrown University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJul 16, 2015

Human color vision gives people the ability to see nanoscale differences

Researchers discovered human eyes can distinguish between thin films of different thickness by observing color differences, achieving precision beyond normal human vision. This ability rivals techniques like ellipsometry, which measure minute thicknesses, and could be used as a quick check by experienced technicians.

SourceOptica·JournalOptica·DateJul 9, 2015

Washington wildfire in California

A lightning strike sparked the Washington Fire near California Highways 4 and 89, fueled by strong erratic winds and severe drought conditions. The fire has grown to 8,000 acres since initial firefighting efforts began on June 19.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJun 22, 2015
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.

When the color we see isn't the color we remember

A Johns Hopkins University-led team discovered that people's brains tend to store colors as one of just a few basic hues, rather than specific shades. This bias affects memory accuracy, making it difficult for individuals to recall the exact color of an object.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·DateJun 2, 2015

Jumping spiders are masters of miniature color vision

Researchers discovered jumping spiders use 'spectral filtering' to see in three color channels, like humans. Their principal eyes detect red, green, and UV light, with a filter converting some green-sensitive cells to see red.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMay 18, 2015

'This never would have happened with a red dress'

The researchers found that all test subjects perceived similar color shades with varying lightness but not actual colors. The perception of daylight locus is influenced by the position of the sun, causing variations in lighting conditions.

SourceUniversity of Bradford·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMay 14, 2015

Three perspectives on 'The Dress'

Scientists Bevil Conway and his team found impressive individual differences in color perception, with people falling into three main camps. The survey also revealed that perception differed by age and sex, suggesting the influence of light on visual systems. These findings shed light on how different brains interpret colors.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMay 14, 2015
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.

Real and false-color images of Siberia

NASA's Aqua satellite captured false-color images of Siberia's massive wildfires using MODIS instrument. The false color image shows the extent of the burn scars, while the natural-color image highlights actively burning areas outlined in red.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMay 14, 2015

Wearing red can make you appear angry and dominant

A study by Durham University found that men wearing red are perceived as more aggressive and dominant than those in blue or grey. The results suggest that the colour red is a warning signal in nature and may influence social perceptions of dominance and aggression.

SourceDurham University·JournalBiology Letters·DateMay 12, 2015

Telling the time by color

Research reveals color has a major impact on how our body clock measures time of day, outperforming brightness as a reliable method. The study found that changes in light color between blue and yellow are more sensitive to the body clock than changes in brightness.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalPLOS Biology·DateApr 20, 2015
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.

Look, something shiny! How color images can influence consumers

A study at Ohio State University found that color images lead to a greater focus on small product details, while black-and-white images aid in focusing on key features. This discovery suggests that marketers can strategically use color or its absence to alter consumer perceptions of products.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateMar 10, 2015

Silver-glass sandwich structure acts as inexpensive color filter

Researchers at Northwestern University developed a technique to transform silver into any color of the rainbow using a 'sandwich-like' structure. By adjusting the glass thickness, different colors can be produced. The filter also acts as an absorber for specific wavelengths, making it suitable for optoelectric devices.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalACS Photonics·DateFeb 13, 2015
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.

Christmas colors disguise gliding lizards in the rainforest

Research found that gliding lizards in Borneo mimic the colours of falling leaves to camouflage, using extendable gliding membranes. The study suggests that populations have evolved different coloured membranes to match their habitats, allowing them to blend in with their surroundings.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalBiology Letters·DateDec 23, 2014

A clear, molecular view of how human color vision evolved

Researchers have completed a detailed picture of human color vision evolution, tracing 7 genetic mutations and 5,040 pathways from UV to blue-light vision. The study clarifies molecular pathways at the chemical, genetic, and functional levels.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateDec 18, 2014

The fine-tuning of human color perception

Researchers analyzed 5,040 evolutionary paths of human color vision, finding that 4,008 trajectories are terminated prematurely due to nonfunctional pigments. The study's findings emphasize the importance of understanding molecular evolution and genetic engineering in decoding protein mutations' effects.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateDec 18, 2014

How bird eggs get their bling

The study reveals the presence of a weak iridescence in Tinamou eggs, creating superficial colors and color changes depending on angle and light. The researchers' investigation uncovers an ultra-smooth coating as the key to the eggshell's glossy appearance.

SourceUniversity of Akron·JournalInterface·DateDec 12, 2014
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.