Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Brain training app helps reduce OCD symptoms, study finds

Researchers developed a smartphone app to help people with OCD manage their symptoms, reducing obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. After just one week of using the app, participants showed significant improvements in cognitive flexibility and reductions in OCD symptoms.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 23, 2018

When it comes to smartphone lifespan, brand name matters more than hardware

A new study by Yale researchers found that brand cache plays a significant role in extending smartphone lifespans, with iPhones lasting up to 67 months compared to Samsung phones' 54.5 months. The study analyzed over 500,000 secondhand phone listings on eBay and found that Apple's brand reputation contributes to its longer lifespan.

SourceYale School of the Environment·JournalJournal of Industrial Ecology·DateOct 16, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Work environment challenges nurses trying to adopt healthy behaviors

A new study found that nurses face significant challenges in adopting healthy behaviors, with only a few percent meeting physical activity guidelines and eating a balanced diet. The research highlights the need for workplace programs tailored to individual motivation and readiness to change.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·DateOct 8, 2018

Researchers create smartphone system to test for lead in water

Researchers have created a low-cost smartphone system using nano-colorimetry and dark-field microscopy to detect lead in tap water. The system can identify concentrations as low as 5 parts per billion, posing a significant risk to health, especially for young children.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateSep 26, 2018

Smartphone, M.D.

A new cell phone app and lab kit enable a smartphone to identify bacteria from patients anywhere in the world, leading to faster recovery and lower treatment costs for patients. The test uses a smartphone's camera to measure a chemical reaction and determines a diagnosis in about an hour.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalEBioMedicine·DateSep 20, 2018
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.

Putting underused smart devices to work

Researchers at IMDEA Networks Institute are exploring a novel 'DisCoEdge' system to optimize device usage and create new services. The system aims to spread heavy computational tasks and large storage over simple devices, enabling novel applications like cooperative data sharing and corporate storage systems.

SourceIMDEA Networks Institute·DateSep 20, 2018

College students have unequal access to reliable technology, study finds

A study by Indiana University sociologist Jessica Calarco found significant gaps in the quality and reliability of technology owned by college students. Students from low-income families and students of color were more likely to experience issues with their devices, leading to stress and negatively impacting academic performance.

SourceIndiana University·JournalCommunication Research·DateSep 19, 2018

UBC breakthrough opens door to $100 ultrasound machine

Engineers at the University of British Columbia have developed a new ultrasound transducer that could lower costs to as low as $100. The device uses tiny vibrating drums made of polymer resin, reducing manufacturing costs.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalMicrosystems & Nanoengineering·DateSep 11, 2018

New research shows what influences the types of apps you use

A large-scale analysis of mobile app data found that users in English-speaking countries have higher app usage due to widespread English language versions and dedicated apps. Socio-economic factors such as occupation, education, and savings also play a significant role in determining app usage.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·DateSep 5, 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.

Otago-led research set to make smartphones even smarter

Researchers at the University of Otago have developed a new approach to achieve centimeter-level precise positioning on smartphones using a combination of signals from four different GNSSs. This technology has the potential to revolutionize applications requiring accurate location information, such as precise car navigation and surveying.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalJournal of Geodesy·DateAug 30, 2018

A smartphone application can help in screening for atrial fibrillation

A smartphone application has been shown to effectively screen for atrial fibrillation, with a verification process that can be downsized or omitted. The study found that approximately 225 people would need to be screened to detect one new case, making this technology an attractive option for widespread screening.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·DateAug 25, 2018

Smartphones may be used to better predict the weather

Researchers at Tel Aviv University have developed a system to harness data from smartphones to forecast weather patterns, particularly those that lead to flash floods. The smartphone sensors can monitor various atmospheric conditions, such as temperature, humidity, and light levels, providing valuable data for accurate forecasts.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalJournal of Atmospheric and Solar-Terrestrial Physics·DateAug 23, 2018
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.

These tags turn everyday objects into smart, connected devices

Researchers have developed printable metal tags that reflect WiFi signals, turning everyday objects into 'smart' Internet of Things devices. These tags can be attached to various objects and track user interactions, such as water bottle hydration levels or motor activity after a stroke.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateAug 16, 2018

Texas A&M professor researching mobile applications security

Dr. Guofei Gu's research team analyzed 10,000 mobile apps and found widespread inconsistencies in web API implementations that can lead to attacks compromising user security and privacy. The WARDroid framework uses static analysis and HTTP request monitoring to identify vulnerabilities.

SourceTexas A&M University·DateJul 12, 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 nerve gas detector built with legos and a smartphone

Researchers at UT Austin designed a new nerve gas detector combining chemical sensors and photography, identifying different nerve agents through color and brightness variations. The device is portable, inexpensive, and adjustable, providing critical information for first responders and scientists in the field.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalACS Central Science·DateJun 27, 2018

Digitalization meets the Middle Ages

A 1,200-year-old parchment fragment from the 'Admonter Abrogans' is being presented in a special exhibition at Admont Abbey, featuring high-resolution images and translations. The MEETeUX project aims to develop digital forms of exhibition design for accessible user experience, utilizing smartphones, touch screens, and virtual reality.

SourceSt. Poelten University of Applied Sciences·DateJun 22, 2018

CREDO: You too can help unveil the deepest puzzles of the universe

The CREDO Detector app allows users to contribute to the largest particle detector in history, exploring fundamental physics questions like dark matter and spacetime nature. By registering and initiating particle detection, users can gain co-authorship and membership in the international collaboration.

SourceThe Henryk Niewodniczanski Institute of Nuclear Physics Polish Academy of Sciences·DateJun 12, 2018
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.

Healthy lifestyle smartphone app slows artery aging

The EVIDENT II trial found that using a healthy lifestyle smartphone app improved arterial hardness, indicating delayed ageing and lower risk of atherosclerosis. The app group showed better results in modifying their diet composition, with higher carbohydrate intake and lower fat content.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·DateJun 9, 2018

Smartphone app effective for serious mental illness treatment

A new smartphone app has been shown to be equally effective in treating people with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depression as traditional clinical interventions. The app, called Focus, had a significantly better rate of treatment engagement and was more convenient for patients.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalPsychiatric Services·DateMay 25, 2018
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.

Smartphone app keeps an 'eye' on daily tuberculosis therapy

A smartphone video-based app substitutes for in-person daily visits required for tuberculosis treatment, with patients showing similar adherence rates as traditional DOT. The app offers a more private and cost-effective option for monitoring medication intake, but further research is needed to assess its full impact.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalOpen Forum Infectious Diseases·DateApr 26, 2018

Telemedicine aided people hit by hurricanes Harvey and Irma

A new study finds that telemedicine can offer aid to people hit by hurricanes Harvey and Irma by providing routine medical care in the days following the disaster. The top diagnosis during this time included acute respiratory illnesses and skin problems, similar to national trends.

SourceRAND Corporation·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateApr 25, 2018
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 use smart phone to make a faster infection detector

Researchers have developed a low-cost, portable laboratory on a phone that works nearly as well as clinical laboratories to detect common viral and bacterial infections. The device was tested with 771 patient samples and found to be accurate in detecting 12 common diseases such as mumps, measles, herpes, and Lyme Disease.

SourceWashington State University·JournalClinica Chimica Acta·DateApr 24, 2018

Deep learning transforms smartphone microscopes into laboratory-grade devices

Researchers at UCLA Samueli School of Engineering have demonstrated that deep learning can enhance microscopic details in photos taken by smartphones, approaching the quality of laboratory-grade microscopes. This technique could bring high-quality medical diagnostics to resource-poor regions, using inexpensively produced attachments.

SourceUCLA Samueli School of Engineering·JournalACS Photonics·DateApr 12, 2018
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.

Digital addiction increases loneliness, anxiety and depression

A new study published in NeuroRegulation found that smartphone overuse is associated with higher levels of loneliness, anxiety and depression. The study suggests strategies such as turning off push notifications, scheduling focused work periods and engaging in face-to-face interactions to combat digital addiction.

SourceSan Francisco State University·JournalNeuroRegulation·DateApr 11, 2018

Street dogs to benefit from app that keeps canine health on track

A new smartphone app developed by animal welfare experts will support vital work in clinics caring for stray dogs worldwide. The app enables staff to track the wellbeing of dogs during catch-neuter-return processes, spotting signs of distress and developing strategies to improve care.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·DateApr 4, 2018

Smartphone app performs better than traditional exam in cardiac assessment

A randomized clinical trial found a smartphone application to have a 94% diagnostic accuracy for assessing blood flow in wrist arteries, surpassing the traditional Allen test. The study highlights the potential of smartphone applications to aid physicians in making decisions at the bedside.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateApr 3, 2018

Finnish drivers use WhatsApp, PokémonGo and Tinder while driving

A study by the University of Jyväskylä found that Finnish drivers use their smartphones extensively while driving, with WhatsApp being the most heavily used app. Heavier users even increase their phone use in dense traffic, highlighting a lack of moderation among some drivers.

SourceUniversity of Jyväskylä - Jyväskylän yliopisto·JournalAccident Analysis & Prevention·DateMar 26, 2018
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Do young children learn anything from YouTube videos?

A study of 55 Indian children aged 6-24 months found they were attracted to music and could identify themselves in videos at various stages. However, despite interacting with parents during smartphone viewing, the children did not learn anything from the YouTube clips.

SourceWiley·JournalActa Paediatrica·DateMar 21, 2018

Mobile application detecting atrial fibrillation reduces the risk of stroke

A new mobile application developed at the University of Turku can detect atrial fibrillation with 96% accuracy, significantly reducing the risk of stroke. The app uses smartphone accelerometers to identify patients with atrial fibrillation, and its results have been validated in a study involving 300 patients.

SourceUniversity of Turku·JournalCirculation·DateMar 16, 2018

Smartphone-assisted neuroendoscopy

A new smartphone-endoscope device allows surgeons to perform intricate neurosurgical procedures with improved efficiency, reduced scarring, and shorter recovery times. The device's high-definition image provides a clear view of the surgical site, while its portability and affordability make it an attractive option for underserved areas.

SourceJournal of Neurosurgery Publishing Group·JournalJournal of Neurosurgery·DateMar 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.

What if we could predict when an athlete was going to be injured?

Researchers developed a framework to measure an athlete's risk of injury using IoT technology, combining data from smartphones, devices, and injury surveillance. The study found that athletes who played at least eight games had more than three times greater odds of injury occurrence.

SourceSociety for Risk Analysis·JournalRisk Analysis·DateMar 12, 2018

Study shows smartphones and data centers harm the environment

A new study from McMaster University suggests that smartphones and data centers will be the most damaging information and communications technologies to the environment by 2040. The research highlights the significant emissions impact of the ICT industry, driven primarily by production and operation.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalJournal of Cleaner Production·DateMar 1, 2018
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Not enjoying your dinner out? Try putting the phone away

A recent study from the University of British Columbia suggests that using smartphones during dinner with friends and family decreases enjoyment. The researchers found that participants who used their phones during meals reported feeling more distracted and experiencing less enjoyment compared to those who kept their devices away.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalJournal of Experimental Social Psychology·DateFeb 26, 2018

Smartphones are bad for some teens, not all

Research by Candice Odgers highlights both positive and negative uses of smartphones among teens. While moderate usage is linked to no negative impact on mental well-being, increased screen time among low-income teens correlates with more physical fights, arguments, and school troubles.

SourceCIFAR·JournalNature·DateFeb 21, 2018

Using a laser to wirelessly charge a smartphone safely across a room

Engineers have created a laser-based wireless charging system that can safely charge smartphones sitting across a room. The system uses power from the laser to charge the smartphone via a thin power cell mounted on the back of the phone, with safety features such as a heatsink and guard beams to prevent overheating and accidental contact.

SourceUniversity of Washington·DateFeb 20, 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.

Phone-addicted teens are unhappy

A new study by SDSU professor Jean M. Twenge found that more screen time is associated with lower happiness in youths, with teens who spend more time on screens being markedly unhappier than those who engage in non-screen activities.

SourceSan Diego State University·JournalEmotion·DateJan 22, 2018
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.

Micro-spectrometer opens door to a wealth of new smartphone functions

Researchers developed a tiny spectrometer that can be easily integrated into smartphones, allowing for precise measurements of light absorption and reflection. The sensor has applications in gas detection, motion sensing and more, with potential to become as important as the camera.

SourceEindhoven University of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 20, 2017

Killing it softly

UCSB mechanical engineer Daniel Gianola and colleagues use machine learning to predict material failure based on a new concept of softness. By analyzing disordered materials, they found that the size of correlated softness is identical to the number of particles in motion during failure.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalScience·DateDec 20, 2017

Baylor study: Bosses who 'phone snub' their employees risk losing trust, engagement

A new study from Baylor University finds that supervisors who constantly check their phones while meeting with employees lose their trust and lead to decreased employee engagement. The research reveals that this behavior can lead to a 5% decrease in employee engagement and lower levels of psychological meaningfulness, availability, and...

SourceBaylor University·JournalComputers in Human Behavior·DateDec 14, 2017
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.

Your smartphone's next trick? Fighting cybercrime

A University at Buffalo-led team of researchers has discovered a way to identify smartphones using just one photo, which could lead to new authentication methods and deter cybercrime. The technology analyzes pattern noise in digital images to create a unique identifier for each smartphone camera.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·DateDec 13, 2017

How well can digital assistants answer questions on sex?

A recent study found that digital assistants on smartphones are less effective than laptop-based Google searches in providing quality sexual health advice. The researchers tested Siri and Google Assistant with 50 questions and compared their answers to laptop-based Google searches, finding that Google performed better in most cases.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateDec 13, 2017

Smartphone case offers blood glucose monitoring on the go

Engineers at UC San Diego developed a smartphone case and app that allows patients to record and track their blood glucose readings anywhere. The device, called GlucPhone, uses reusable sensors and wireless transmission for accurate measurements.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalBiosensors and Bioelectronics·DateDec 7, 2017