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New study reveals life's earliest evolution was more complicated than previously suspected

A new study analyzes thousands of phylogenetic trees to shed light on the nature of the earliest living organisms. It suggests that early mutation rates were much higher than at present, leading to a complex 'family tree' of life. The research provides insight into how quickly early organisms may have evolved billions of years ago.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateApr 22, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Predicting in-flight air density for more accurate landing

Researchers developed an onboard algorithm to estimate air density, providing critical real-time data for steering during entry, descent, and landing stages. The algorithm uses data from sensors and prior knowledge to improve accuracy and certainty of landings.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·DateApr 1, 2020

Good news for NF patients with low grade glioma (LGG)

A recent study published in Neuro-Oncology has made significant progress in understanding low-grade gliomas (LGG) in NF patients, which affect nearly a third of those with NF1. The research collaboration between NF experts and LGG specialists aims to develop new therapeutic strategies for these patients.

SourceChildren's Tumor Foundation·JournalNeuro-Oncology·DateMar 31, 2020

Extreme high-frequency signals enable terabits-per-second data links

Using technology that allows high-frequency signals to travel on regular phone lines, researchers successfully transmitted data at rates of terabits per second through a pair of copper wires. The discovery could enable faster data transfer in applications such as chip-to-chip communication and data center networks.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateMar 31, 2020

'Inconsistent and misleading' password meters could increase risk of cyber attacks

A study by the University of Plymouth found inconsistent and misleading advice from popular password meters, potentially putting users at risk. The research tested 16 password meters and found that some would not flag weak passwords, such as 'abc123' or 'qwertyuiop', despite being among the worst passwords of 2019.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalComputer Fraud & Security·DateDec 19, 2019
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

High-def mapping of moisture in the soil

A new approach developed by University of Delaware researchers uses machine learning to predict soil moisture conditions in smaller areas with greater detail than standard models. This improves regional and global analysis while providing more accurate predictions even without existing data.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 17, 2019

Short-lived light sources discovered in the sky

A team of international researchers has discovered approximately 100 red transients in publicly available sky data from the 1950s to the present, which could be attributed to natural astrophysical phenomena or rare events. The findings have potential implications for our understanding of stellar evolution and active galactic nuclei.

SourceStockholm University·JournalThe Astronomical Journal·DateDec 12, 2019

UK health service 'lagging behind' other high income countries

The UK National Health Service faces challenges in meeting growing demand while reducing costs. Key findings show that the NHS spent less on healthcare per person compared to other high-income countries and had lower numbers of healthcare professionals. However, it achieved better rates for certain health outcomes.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateNov 27, 2019

Global health viewpoint: Poor data prevent accurate measurement of UN goals

A global health viewpoint emphasizes the need for accurate data to measure progress toward the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The lack of data in low- and middle-income countries, combined with inconsistent international standards, is hindering efforts to track progress.

SourceInstitute for Health Metrics and Evaluation·JournalThe Lancet Global Health·DateNov 25, 2019
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.

Protein Data Bank at Rutgers Awarded $34.5 million grant

The Protein Data Bank at Rutgers has received a $34.5 million grant over five years to enhance services and improve the quality of its vast repository of 3D biomolecular structures. With more than 150,000 structures available, the data bank plays a crucial role in discovering lifesaving drugs and supporting various fields of research.

SourceRutgers University·DateNov 4, 2019

Cystic fibrosis carriers at increased risk of digestive symptoms

Researchers found that cystic fibrosis carriers have a higher likelihood of experiencing bile duct obstruction and other digestive system phenotypes. The study used large-scale genomic data from the UK Biobank to identify these associations, which may provide answers for carriers who were previously left without information.

SourceAmerican Society of Human Genetics·DateOct 17, 2019
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.

Mathematicians find gold in data

Researchers developed a numerical method that speeds up calculations for modern supercomputers, making the inverse problem tractable. The new algorithm enables prospectors to make do with fewer exploratory holes and is applicable for searching other types of ores.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalGeophysical Journal International·DateOct 16, 2019

Predicting terror activity before it happens

A new predictive model can forecast a terror organization's future violence after just 10 attacks, allowing security forces to identify and neutralize the most destructive groups. The model, developed by Northwestern University researchers, uses data from publicly available sources like the Global Terror Database.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 7, 2019
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.

Discovery of 'hidden' outbreak hints that Zika virus can spread silently

A genomics study reveals an undetected Zika outbreak in Cuba in 2017, which peaked around the same time international health agencies thought the epidemic was nearing its end. The study uses genomic sequencing and travel patterns to reconstruct virus ancestry and outbreak dynamics, providing insights into how viruses can spread silently.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalCell·DateAug 22, 2019

Findings from CARE Consortium added to global repository for brain injury data

The NCAA-DoD Concussion Assessment, Research and Education (CARE) Consortium has made nearly two-thirds of its data available globally. The dataset comprises 88 million data points and provides insights into concussion effects on the brain. Researchers can now collaborate more easily across the traumatic brain injury research field.

SourceIndiana University School of Medicine·DateJul 24, 2019

Why urban planners should pay attention to restaurant-review sites

Researchers used online restaurant data to predict key socioeconomic attributes of neighborhoods in China, including daytime and nighttime population, business numbers, and consumer spending. The method shows promise for urban planners and policymakers seeking alternative data sources.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 15, 2019

Location-based data can provide insights for business decisions

A study by Oregon State University found that location-based data from social commerce sites like Yelp can predict restaurant success. The hybrid model, which combines contextual and geographic models, performed best in predicting business performance.

SourceOregon State University·JournalExpert Systems with Applications·DateJul 1, 2019

Medical cannabis and opioid overdose

Contrary to earlier research, a study found that medical cannabis laws were associated with a 23% increase in opioid overdose mortality. The reversal of the association occurred despite controlled data analysis and small population usage rates of just 2.5%.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 10, 2019
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.

Species may disappear faster than anticipated, according to new data models

A new study in Journal of Applied Ecology proposes ways to improve risk assessments for endangered species by incorporating accurate population growth rates and survival data. The models more closely reflect reality by assessing long-used assumptions and proposing analytics that better reflect the impact of survival and reproduction.

SourceSpecies360·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateMay 16, 2019

The Lancet Global Health: 1 in 7 babies worldwide born with a low birthweight

The study found that over 20 million babies were born with a low birthweight (less than 2500g) in 2015, with almost three-quarters of these babies born in Southern Asia and sub-Saharan Africa. The authors call for immediate action to tackle underlying causes of low birthweight and ensure clinical care for small babies.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Global Health·DateMay 15, 2019

Illinois research team introduces wearable audio dataset

Researchers have introduced a new wearable audio dataset with up to 80 microphones, which can simulate different hearing scenarios and improve the performance of devices like smart headphones. The data set is now available for free under an open-access license, making it easier for future researchers to access and build upon.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·DateMay 14, 2019

One in five people in England harmed by others' drinking over past year

A recent survey of 5000 adults in England found that nearly one in five people experienced harm due to others' drinking, including physical violence and emotional neglect. The study also revealed that younger age, certain ethnicities, and hazardous drinking habits were associated with a higher risk of experiencing harm.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Open·DateMay 9, 2019
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.

Amid genomic data explosion, scientists find proliferating errors

Researchers found large numbers of errors in publicly available genomic data, including mistakes in gene annotation that resulted in truncated or missing sequences. The errors are due to human and technological factors, such as imperfect DNA sequencing technology and confusion about protein function.

SourceWashington State University·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateApr 30, 2019

90% of teens killed by an intimate partner are girls

A new study in JAMA Pediatrics found that intimate partner homicide among teens is a serious public health issue, with 90% of victims being girls. The study analyzed data from the National Violent Death Reporting System and found that guns were the most common weapon used in these homicides.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateApr 15, 2019

The future of agriculture is computerized

Researchers at MIT's Media Lab have created basil plants with enhanced flavor and potential health benefits using computer algorithms. The team used hydroponic containers with controlled environmental conditions to grow the plants, which were then analyzed for volatile compounds. Machine learning algorithms evaluated millions of possib...

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 3, 2019

Aiming for gold: improving reproducibility in hydrology studies

A team of researchers developed an online survey tool to assess the reproducibility of published research in hydrology studies. The tool evaluates data availability, result reproducibility, and replicability of findings, providing insights into the low rates of reproducibility in this field.

SourceUtah State University·JournalScientific Data·DateFeb 27, 2019
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.

Political and policy feedbacks in the climate system

The Partisan Climate Opinion Maps reveal new data on how Republican and Democratic climate and energy opinions vary across all 50 states and 435 congressional districts. The maps show substantial heterogeneity in climate opinions despite US partisan polarization.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·DateFeb 16, 2019

Will moving to the commercial cloud leave some data users behind?

Agencies are considering commercial cloud services to store and make available publicly-generated data, which could result in user fees for downloads and analyses. This could lead to decreased access and use of the data, particularly for individual users and organizations with small budgets.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateFeb 7, 2019

Army scientists win award for research on reducing risk for soldiers

The researchers proposed a new approach to testing, leveraging heterogeneous computing strategies and programmable networks to speed up testing in the wake of big data. This method reduces the risk of capturing corrupted or unusable data and enables more rapid evaluation of mission effectiveness.

SourceU.S. Army Research Laboratory·DateJan 31, 2019

Study: Predicting gentrification in order to prevent it

A new research model predicts gentrification in US neighborhoods based on people, place, and policy factors. The study finds that diversity, access to jobs, and housing quality are key predictors of gentrification, highlighting the role of urban planners in shaping neighborhood change.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Denver·JournalJournal of Urban Affairs·DateJan 28, 2019
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.

Gamblers predicted Brexit before financial traders, study finds

A study shows that gamblers sensed the Leave vote coming an hour before currency experts in the city, creating a window of arbitrage. By trading early on either market, astute traders could have made up to nine US cents of profit per pound sterling.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalInternational Journal of Forecasting·DateJan 11, 2019

Role of PCSK9 inhibitors in high risk patients with dyslipidemia

PCSK9 inhibitors significantly reduce Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (LDL-C) levels by more than 50-60% in patients with Familial Hypercholesterolemia (FH). The study also found that alirocumab reduces all-cause mortality compared to evolocumab, suggesting potential differences in cardiovascular outcomes.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCurrent Pharmaceutical Design·DateJan 1, 2019

These nine measures reveal how forests are controlled by climate

Researchers analyzed global forest communities to understand how climate affects tree growth traits, revealing nine key changes that could impact forest productivity and composition. Temperature variability and vapor pressure emerged as major factors influencing these traits.

SourceSanta Fe Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 27, 2018
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.

The German Bundesliga: Are the players worth the money?

Researchers from Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg investigated the relationship between footballers' performance and market value in the German Bundesliga. They found that star players tend to be overvalued, while others are traded at below-market value. The study also highlights the impact of a club's reputation and commercia...

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalJournal of Applied Statistics·DateNov 29, 2018

The warm and loving tegu lizard becomes a genetic resource

The tegu lizard's genome has been sequenced to an unprecedented level of quality, revealing its ability to regulate its body temperature and potentially threatening native species. The high-quality genome assembly will aid scientists in studying other lizards and snakes, shedding light on their evolutionary history.

SourceGigaScience·JournalGigaScience·DateNov 27, 2018

Telemedicine use increases but still uncommon

Annual telemedicine visits increased from 0.02 to 6.57 per 1,000 members between 2005-2017, with growth accelerating after 2015. Most users resided in urban areas, a trend contrasting with the emphasis on expanding telemedicine access in rural regions.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateNov 27, 2018

Smarter AI: Machine learning without negative data

Researchers developed a new machine learning method that allows AI to make classifications without negative data, a crucial component in traditional classification technology. This breakthrough enables AI systems to function effectively even when limited by data regulation or business constraints.

SourceRIKEN·DateNov 26, 2018
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

New ranking method could help hotels to maximize their revenue

Researchers have developed a new method to rank hotels more accurately, providing insights on areas that matter most to customers. The study found that facilities and staff are key factors in maximizing revenue for hotels.

SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·JournalInternational Journal of Hospitality Management·DateNov 8, 2018
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Looking and listening for signals of navy test explosions off Florida coast

A team of researchers analyzed seismic and acoustic data from US Navy explosions off the Florida coast to better understand the relationship between local magnitude and charge weight. They found that both types of data can be used to identify underwater explosions, with seismic signals providing clearer evidence.

SourceSeismological Society of America·JournalBulletin of the Seismological Society of America·DateOct 16, 2018

Health data breaches on the rise

Between 2010 and 2017, there were 2,149 reported health data breaches compromising 176.4 million records, with healthcare providers accounting for 70% of breaches.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateSep 25, 2018

For-profit hospitals correlated with higher readmission rates

A University of Illinois Chicago study reveals that patients treated in for-profit hospitals have higher readmission rates compared to those in public or non-profit institutions. For-profit hospitals had the highest mean and median readmission ratios across six major diseases.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 18, 2018

New study sheds light on the ecology of investors in financial markets

Researchers from the University of Turku and University of Palermo studied the ecology of investors in financial markets using actual data. The study found that groups of investors form interlinked clusters and are connected to strategy usage, which affects market volatility.

SourceUniversity of Turku·JournalPalgrave Communications·DateAug 14, 2018
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.

Overall stroke death rates decline in Europe but level off or increase in some countries

Overall stroke death rates have declined in Europe, but some countries are experiencing a recent plateau or increase in mortality. The study found significant decreases in death rates from cerebrovascular disease in most European countries over the past 37 years, with age-standardised mortality rates being higher in men than women.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateAug 14, 2018

Are US cities getting more or less violent? New database offers mixed picture

According to a new analysis by New York University researchers, US cities have become dramatically safer since 1991, with most becoming less violent over the last year. However, recent fluctuations in selected cities suggest temporary disruptions in this 17-year decline, with some cities experiencing rising violence from 2014 to 2017.

SourceNew York University·DateAug 13, 2018
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.

Largest genetic database on Alzheimer's disease now re-open for business

The National Institute on Aging Genetics of Alzheimer's Disease Data Storage Site (NIAGADS) has made large-scale DNA sequence data available to researchers. The database includes whole-genome sequence data from 5,000 subjects with Alzheimer's disease and cognitively normal controls from diverse ethnic backgrounds.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·DateJul 23, 2018