Add BrightSurf on Google Email

WVU faculty, students contribute to cosmic breakthrough uncovering evidence of low-frequency gravitational waves

Researchers from West Virginia University have made a groundbreaking discovery by detecting evidence of low-frequency gravitational waves, which can only be perceived with a detector much larger than the Earth. The signal was detected using pulsar timing arrays and has significant implications for understanding spacetime dynamics.

SourceWest Virginia University·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateJun 29, 2023

Undergrad-driven project reveals drought’s effects on painted turtles

A study by University of Nebraska-Lincoln undergraduates found that drought can lower survival odds, slow growth, and even skew the ratio of female-to-male painted turtles. The team discovered a 7% decrease in female survival and a 10% decrease in male survival rates during drought periods.

SourceUniversity of Nebraska-Lincoln·JournalClimate Change Ecology·DateJun 28, 2023
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.

Building the semiconductor workforce of the future

The University of Utah has joined a semiconductor network with Micron Technology to develop the next generation of US semiconductor industry's workforce. The partnership aims to increase students' opportunities for experiential learning across the semiconductor ecosystem, with a focus on underrepresented groups.

SourceUniversity of Utah·DateJun 22, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Study: Southern states may have borne brunt of COVID-19 mental health impact

A new study found that federal and state lockdowns and health mandates implemented during the pandemic exacerbated mental health issues in people living in four US geographic regions. The research showed a significant increase in feelings of anxiety and depression, particularly in Southern states with Republican governments.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 8, 2023

Evidence of ‘pandemic brain’ in college students

A study by Ohio State University researchers found that college students were less consistent in their decision making during the 2020 fall semester compared to previous years. Students were more likely to cycle between relying on gut instincts and thoroughly evaluating information depending on how scenarios were described.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of American College Health·DateMay 17, 2023
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Keeping retail employees safe: new study measures customer aggression

A new tool has been developed to measure customer aggression in the retail sector, which can lead to emotional exhaustion and job stress among employees. The scale identifies four types of aggressive behaviors, including being ignored or having fake negative reviews posted online.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalJournal of Retailing and Consumer Services·TypeSurvey·DateApr 16, 2023

MU grant will help ease nursing workforce shortage

A recent $800,000 grant from the Missouri Department of Economic Development will train 300 MU students as part-time nurse assistants at MU Health Care. This three-year initiative will create a paid opportunity for nearly 100 MU students each year to earn work experience and reduce the need for student loans.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·DateApr 3, 2023

Pairing students supports integration at universities

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology found that pairing students reduces academic and social gaps, increasing well-being. The study, conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic, showed positive effects on communication, stress, and personal contacts.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalJournal of Studies in International Education·TypeCase study·DateFeb 23, 2023
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.

Ohio University professor Jennifer Hines and her research group uncovers new class of medicinal compounds that target RNA

A team of researchers led by Ohio University professor Jennifer Hines has uncovered a new class of compounds that can target RNA and disrupt its function. The discovery identified a chemical scaffold that could be used to develop RNA-targeted medicines for various diseases.

SourceOhio University·JournalBiochemical and Biophysical Research Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 13, 2023

Hernandez-Garcia honored for kindling curiosity and passion for physics

Hernandez-Garcia was recognized for his efforts to bring undergraduate students from Mexico to Jefferson Lab for a 10-week summer study program, where they gain hands-on experience with accelerator R&D test stands. The program has led to several students earning Ph.D.s in accelerator physics and pursuing careers in the field.

SourceDOE/Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility·DateJan 25, 2023
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.

How we learn from being wrong can lead to anxiety

A new study at the University of Miami investigated how student expectations of exam grades impact individuals' moods and outlooks. Researchers found that optimistic students learn more from positive surprises, while consistently pessimistic students predict lower scores despite slight improvements.

SourceUniversity of Miami·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 10, 2023

Walnuts the new brain food for stressed university students

A recent clinical trial found that walnut consumption reduced stress and depression levels in university students. The study also showed improved metabolic biomarkers and overall sleep quality in the longer term. Walnuts contain nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and melatonin, which promote healthy brain and gut function.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalNutrients·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 15, 2022
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.

The secret to STEM diversity may lie in peer mentorship

A longitudinal study from UMass Amherst reveals that peer mentorship enhances female engineering students' confidence, motivation, and academic outcomes. The study, which tracked 150 female students over eight years, showed that female mentees with female mentors reported greater belonging, motivation, and confidence.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 7, 2022

Fungi in sink drains act as ‘reservoirs for mould’

Research from the University of Reading found that sinks and P-traps harbor a surprising number of fungal organisms, including black moulds and relatives of baker's yeast. The study showed that these microorganisms can tolerate high temperatures, low pH, and low nutrients, making them a potential risk to health in certain environments.

SourceUniversity of Reading·JournalEnvironmental DNA·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 1, 2022

Male orb-weaving spiders fight less in female-dominated colonies

A new study found that when there are more females than males in colonies of orb-weaving spiders, males fight less with each other and females exhibit less aggression. The researchers also observed cooperation among spiders in constructing their webs and wrapping prey in silk.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalJournal of Arachnology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 30, 2022
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.

Tree rings offer insight into devastating radiation storms

A University of Queensland study analyzed tree ring data to understand cosmic radiation 'storms', known as Miyake Events. The research suggests that these events are not correlated with sunspot activity and may be a kind of astrophysical 'storm' or outburst.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society A Mathematical Physical and Engineering Sciences·DateOct 25, 2022

Robotic insect toys build undergraduate research skills in physics

Researchers from Pomona College developed an online undergraduate physics lab course using Hexbug Nanos to engage students in scientific research. Students designed experiments to investigate concepts in statistical mechanics and electrical conduction, with promising results.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAmerican Journal of Physics·DateOct 21, 2022

Nutrition education should be ‘on the menu’ of all healthcare professionals’ education - new research

A new curriculum aims to integrate nutrition education into medical students' general undergraduate training, highlighting its importance in patient care and disease management. The curriculum is designed to equip future doctors with knowledge and skills to consider nutrition's role in patient conditions.

SourceAston University·JournalBritish Journal Of Nutrition·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateOct 20, 2022

Climate change could make High Arctic fertile ground for emerging pandemics: uOttawa study

A novel genetic analysis by University of Ottawa researchers reveals that climate change could lead to an increased risk of viral spillover in the High Arctic. This increased risk may result in new viruses infecting previously uninfected hosts, potentially leading to emerging pandemics.

SourceUniversity of Ottawa·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 19, 2022
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.

Universities love interdisciplinary STEM programs, but what about students?

A recent study led by UMass Amherst examines how students navigate and integrate interdisciplinary learning throughout their college careers. The research reveals three stages of engagement: choosing, navigating, and integrating. Strong advising is critical for success in interdisciplinary programs.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalThe Journal of Higher Education·DateOct 17, 2022

USC COMPASS undergraduate program points the way to stem cell careers

The USC COMPASS program aims to recruit and support students from historically underrepresented backgrounds to pursue careers in regenerative medicine. Scholars will receive a minor in Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, as well as paid summer internships and mentorship opportunities.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·DateOct 6, 2022
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.

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.

Ohio University chemistry lab students predict spread of COVID-19 with kinetics models

Undergraduate students at Ohio University applied kinetic techniques learned in physical chemistry to analyze the COVID-19 spread data from the CDC. They developed a model that considers the effect of vaccination and made predictions for the following months, correctly predicting the surge in cases in Ohio.

SourceOhio University·JournalJournal of Chemical Education·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 11, 2022

WVU researcher making sense of brain circuits with $1.6M NSF grant

A WVU researcher is studying corollary discharge circuits in fruit flies to better understand how the brain integrates sensory information and coordinate movement. The goal of this research is to shed light on human disease and human performance, with potential applications for improving fighter pilot safety.

SourceWest Virginia University·DateAug 9, 2022

Simulation in medical school helps prepare doctors to care for dying patients

Medical students who participated in simulated experience of caring for a dying patient reported a marked increase in confidence, which was sustained six months later. The study found that simulation training improved their ability to communicate with patients and families, as well as manage patient care effectively.

SourceUniversity of Sussex·JournalBMJ Supportive & Palliative Care·TypeSurvey·DateAug 9, 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.

How do galaxies evolve? A UMass Amherst undergrad may have provided the missing link

A UMass Amherst undergraduate student's work has provided key insight into how galaxies evolve, linking supermassive black hole growth to star formation. The study uses mid-infrared spectra to quantify the connection between these phenomena, paving the way for the James Webb Space Telescope to investigate galaxy evolution.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·DateJul 21, 2022

Study finds deep divide on mental health impact of COVID-19

A recent Dartmouth study using mobile technology compares emotional well-being of college students before and during the pandemic, finding significant differences in mental health and behavior. The research identifies two groups with differing experiences, with one group showing poorer mental health, anxiety, and stress.

SourceDartmouth College·DateMay 4, 2022

MU grant will help nurses boost confidence in COVID-19 vaccine

The University of Missouri has received a grant to help nurses discuss COVID-19 vaccination hesitancy with their communities. The project will equip nursing students with knowledge and confidence to promote public health through effective communication strategies.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·DateApr 11, 2022
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.

Million-year-old Arctic sedimentary record sheds light on climate mystery, UMass Amherst researchers find

Researchers have provided a continuous look at the dramatic shift in glacial cycles, known as the Mid-Pleistocene Transition, using an ancient Arctic sedimentary record. The study reveals that three interglacial periods were warmer than previously thought, and there was a long-term drying trend during this period.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalClimate of the Past·DateMar 30, 2022

Student researchers improve coral restoration efforts

A recent study led by University of Hawaii student researchers found that exposing rice coral larvae to warmer temperatures did not improve survival once the coral developed into juveniles. Instead, rearing at ambient temperatures maximized early life stage survival.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalCoral Reefs·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 23, 2022

Run not just fun for Rice students, elementary partners

A new study by Rice University researchers shows that scheduled physical activity is beneficial for both elementary students and college students, improving their physical health and mental well-being. The program, which matched undergraduate mentors with local fifth graders, demonstrated the positive effects of exercise on young peopl...

SourceRice University·JournalRecent Progress in Nutrition·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 21, 2022
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.

Parents can influence children's choice and success in STEM major, PSU study finds

A PSU study reveals that parents' STEM backgrounds significantly impact their children's likelihood of majoring and persisting in STEM fields. Researchers identify STEM-specific cultural capital as a key factor, highlighting the importance of parental involvement in fostering STEM values and habits.

SourcePortland State University·JournalSocial Science Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 7, 2021

Persistent gender bias found in scientific research and related course materials: A long-term linguistic analysis

Two studies published in Language reveal persistent gender bias in both peer-reviewed journal articles and course materials used in linguistics. Linguistics textbooks exhibit male-gendered protagonists more often, while research articles show stereotypes about men and women, with non-binary identities absent.

SourceLinguistic Society of America·JournalLanguage·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 6, 2021

NJIT awarded NSF grant to open undergrad space weather research program

NJIT's Institute for Space Weather Sciences will host a Research Experiences for Undergraduates program, providing students with hands-on work at advanced observatories. The 10-week program aims to foster the development of future workforce in solar-terrestrial and space weather sciences.

SourceNew Jersey Institute of Technology·DateNov 1, 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.

Students who felt that their university let them down during the COVID-19 pandemic ("institutional betrayal") were more likely to experience trauma symptoms

A study published in PLOS ONE found that students who felt their university failed them during the pandemic were more likely to experience trauma symptoms. The authors analyzed data from a large group of undergraduate students and discovered a significant association between institutional betrayal and trauma symptoms.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 20, 2021

Even college campuses with 100% vaccine rates need COVID-19 tests

A study of 5,000 simulated undergraduates found that weekly surveillance testing was associated with a substantial reduction in infections. Even at low vaccine effectiveness rates, quarantine protocols were effective in reducing infections by up to 93.6%.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalJAMA Health Forum·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 18, 2021

Stressful day? Stress can predict decreases in social interaction

A Dartmouth study found that individuals who experienced higher levels of stress on a given day had lower social interaction the following day. The research used mobile phone sensing data from 99 undergraduate students and showed that stress predicted less social interaction, but not the other way around.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalEmotion·TypeObservational study·DateOct 5, 2021

Transforming science communication through the power of film

The Science Communication Lab has received a 3-year NSF grant to create new films and virtual workshops about novel breakthroughs and techniques in science. The lab aims to expand its work across filmmaking and education to reach broad and diverse audiences, emphasizing diversity, equity, and inclusion.

SourceScience Communication Lab·DateSep 21, 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.

UBCO researchers explore the impact of kindness on campus

A new study by UBC Okanagan researchers found that including a kindness assignment in an undergraduate course increased students' self-reported kindness scores and peer connectedness. The research highlights the importance of kindness initiatives in post-secondary education.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalJournal of Further and Higher Education·TypeObservational study·DateSep 20, 2021