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To each his own: Consumers and self-designed products

A study found that amateur designers have lower self-evaluations of their products when compared to professionals. However, consumers enjoy intentionally competing against professionals, leading to more favorable self-evaluations when informed of contests beforehand.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateAug 24, 2009

Tiny 'MEMS' devices to filter, amplify electronic signals

Tiny mechanical devices called resonators can filter electronic signals by cancelling out certain frequencies and allowing others to pass. The devices, made of silicon, are manufactured using a standard procedure and have the potential for advanced applications in medical and homeland-defense fields.

SourcePurdue University·DateAug 10, 2009

Bringing solar power to the masses

Researchers, led by Professor Neal Armstrong, are working to harness solar energy for utility-scale generation and portable devices, with potential breakthroughs in organic solar cells and interface science.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·DateAug 5, 2009
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.

Researchers turn cell phones into fluorescent microscopes

Researchers developed a cell phone microscope, CellScope, that captures color images of malaria parasites and tuberculosis bacteria labeled with fluorescent markers. The system uses compact microscope lenses attached to a cell phone and achieves a spatial resolution of 1.2 micrometers, comparable to standard light microscopes.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 21, 2009

New Bluetooth application will let sport fans share experiences in real time

Researchers at the University of Glasgow have developed a new Bluetooth application that allows people in different parts of a stadium to share banter, photos, and video clips instantly. This technology makes innovative use of short-range communications, enabling fans to connect with up to seven other users simultaneously.

SourceEngineering and Physical Sciences Research Council·DateJul 9, 2009

Hurricane Katrina: Phone home

Researchers from Tel Aviv University have developed a novel way to predict the intensity of the next big flood using cell phone signals. By analyzing fluctuations in atmospheric moisture around cell phone towers, they can provide accurate 'critical moisture distribution' levels for fine-tuning model predictions of big floods.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalAtmospheric Chemistry and Physics·DateJul 6, 2009
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.

Mini-beamer in a cell phone or PDA

Researchers developed a mini projector that can be integrated into a cellphone or PDA, producing monochrome images with high brightness, and projecting them onto flat surfaces using plastic lenses made of embossed material

SourceFraunhofer-Gesellschaft·DateJun 24, 2009

How to text message and avoid pain

A study by Ewa Gustafsson found that young adults with neck, arm, or hand symptoms tend to use their mobile phones differently than healthy controls. They often text message while hunched over and use the single thumb technique, which can lead to increased stress on hands and reduced breaks.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalJournal of Electromyography and Kinesiology·DateJun 23, 2009
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Writing in air not pie in the sky

Researchers developed the PhonePoint Pen application, which uses built-in cell phone accelerometers to recognize human writing. Users can write short notes or draw diagrams in mid-air, with plans for future improvements including real-time feedback and character recognition.

SourceDuke University·DateJun 9, 2009

Cell phone ringtones can pose major distraction, impair recall

A new study by Washington University in St. Louis found that cell phone ringtones can be distracting in classrooms, impairing recall and learning. Students who experienced ringing phones performed 25% worse on course content tests, even after the ringtone had stopped.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalJournal of Environmental Psychology·DateJun 2, 2009
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.

Recovery funds will support evaluation of suicide prevention training

The National Institute of Mental Health is using Recovery Act funds to evaluate the effectiveness of a new training program for telephone crisis counselors. The training, which began in 2008, aims to assess the benefits of the training and shape telephone-based suicide prevention services across the country.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Mental Health·DateMay 22, 2009

Viral epidemics poised to go mobile

Researchers analyzed calling and mobility data from over six million mobile phone users to understand the threat of mobile phone viruses. A highly fragmented market share has hindered outbreaks so far, but predicting that viruses will become a significant threat once a single operating system's market share grows sufficiently large.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalScience·DateMay 21, 2009

There's a sensor in your pocket

Participatory Sensing enables individuals to identify, measure, and address problems such as air pollution and ecosystem damage using mobile phones. This platform presents scenarios for improving environmental protection and personal healthcare, leveraging the widespread access of mobile devices.

SourceWoodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars/Science and Technology Innovation Program·DateMay 19, 2009
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.

Air-fueled battery could last up to 10 times longer

Researchers have developed an air-fueled battery that stores up to ten times more energy than current designs, with potential applications in electric vehicles and renewable energy. The new design uses oxygen drawn from the air during discharge, reducing the need for chemicals and increasing capacity.

SourceEngineering and Physical Sciences Research Council·DateMay 18, 2009

R U learning?

A pilot study is testing the effectiveness of text messaging as a medium for delivering HIV prevention education to at-risk teens. The study, funded by the National Institutes of Health, uses a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention-approved curriculum and involves sending text, image, and video material to teen participants.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Charlotte·DateApr 14, 2009

Sun Dial uses mobile phones to alert Muslims to prayer

Researchers developed Sun Dial to help Muslim users determine prayer times, finding imagery-based prompts more appealing than text-based options. The app aims to enhance the religious experience by reminding users of their community ties.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·DateApr 6, 2009
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.

Will Europe at last unite to combat thousands of alien invaders?

A recent paper suggests legislation is only part of the solution to Europe's invasive species problem, with a single coordinating body needed to tackle the issue effectively. The European Centre for Invasive Species Management (ECISM) would coordinate activities across Member States and support rapid response and public awareness.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalScience·DateApr 2, 2009

Spinning carbon nanotubes spawns new wireless applications

Scientists at the University of Cincinnati have discovered new uses for spun carbon nanotube fibers, which exhibit high tensile strength and conductivity. The team found that these fibers can be used to create lightweight and efficient antennas for wireless communication, with potential applications in aerospace industries.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·DateMar 9, 2009

Hospital mobile phones 'superbug' scare

Mobile phone handsets used by hospital workers are highly contagious with bacteria, including MRSA, and can lead to infections ranging from skin complaints to life-threatening illness. The study recommends strict infection-control procedures and decontamination methods to prevent the spread of infection.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalAnnals of Clinical Microbiology and Antimicrobials·DateMar 5, 2009
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.

Previous work experience not always a positive for a new job

A study found that prior work experience can lead to lower performance at a new job, as workers bring old habits and skills that don't adapt to the new role. Employees who score high on adaptability and fit in with their company's culture tend to perform better.

SourceOhio State University·JournalOrganization Science·DateFeb 23, 2009

K-State marketing professor says online shopping will look something like Second Life in the future

A Kansas State University marketing professor says online shopping will borrow from Second Life, allowing shoppers to interact with virtual avatars and purchase items in a social setting. The future of e-commerce may also involve mobile devices, with research suggesting that gaming and chat features are key to attracting young customers.

SourceKansas State University·JournalInternational Journal of Electronic Marketing and Retailing·DateFeb 19, 2009

Cell phones dangerous for child pedestrians, UAB study finds

Researchers at UAB found that children who use cell phones while crossing streets are more likely to exhibit risky behaviors, including taking longer to cross and looking both ways less often. The study's findings highlight the need for parents and caregivers to limit cell phone use in child pedestrians.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateJan 26, 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.

Mobile phone use not associated with melanoma of the eye

Researchers examined the link between mobile phone use and uveal melanoma in a large study of 1,453 participants. No significant increased risk was found among regular users or those who used radio sets, suggesting that phone use may not be associated with this type of eye cancer.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateJan 13, 2009

Text messages could help tuberculosis drug compliance

A mobile phone text-messaging strategy has shown promising results in improving tuberculosis treatment adherence among patients in remote locations. The system uses SMS reminders to monitor medication intake, resulting in high treatment success rates and improved patient compliance.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateJan 1, 2009

Electronic methods potentially secure for sending blank ballots overseas

New NIST report explores electronic technologies for overseas voting, highlighting potential risks and control measures. The report suggests that postal mail can be augmented with electronic methods to distribute blank ballots, but transmission of completed ballots via telephone, e-mail, and the Web faces significant security threats.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·DateDec 23, 2008

Cell phones using lens-free imaging promise to improve health monitoring

A new prototype cell phone uses holographic lens-free imaging to accurately identify smaller particles such as E. coli in saliva or blood samples, enabling rapid diagnosis of diseases like HIV and malaria. The technology also has potential for monitoring water quality and detecting hazardous microparticles in disaster situations.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalLab on a Chip·DateDec 22, 2008

Kidnapped senior needed IU-patented home security system

A device patented by an Indiana University researcher would have alerted a kidnapped senior's closest friends and family to the crime within moments. The Portal Monitor connects home doorbell sensors to porch cameras, forwarding headshot images to pre-selected contacts via cell phones.

SourceIndiana University·DateDec 17, 2008
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

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.

Hands-free cell phone conversations add 5 m to drivers' braking distances

Research by University of Warwick reveals that hands-free cell phone conversations impair drivers' visual attention, increasing braking distances and errors. The study found that even passive listening to a conversation has a significant negative impact on driving performance.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalPsychonomic Bulletin & Review·DateDec 3, 2008

Self-powered devices possible, says Texas A&M researcher

A Texas A&M researcher has discovered a way to harness energy from sound waves using piezoelectric materials, which could enable the development of self-powered cell phones and other devices. The discovery is significant because it shows that energy can be converted at a 100% increase when materials are manufactured at a very small size.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalPhysical Review B·DateDec 1, 2008

Drivers distracted more by cell phones than by passengers

A new study by University of Utah psychologists found that drivers are more distracted by talking on a cellular phone than by conversing with a passenger in an automobile. When drivers talk on a cell phone, they drift out of their lanes and missed exits more frequently than drivers conversing with a passenger.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalJournal of Applied Psychology·DateDec 1, 2008

11,000 alien species invade Europe

A comprehensive overview of alien species in Europe reveals over 11,000 documented species, with 15% causing economic damages and 15% harming biological diversity. The DAISIE project provides a valuable tool for managing biological invasions in Europe, enabling early detection, eradication, and control methods.

SourceHelmholtz Association·DateNov 20, 2008
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.

Track your fitness, environmental impact with new cell phone applications

Researchers at the University of Washington have developed two new cell phone applications, UbiFit and UbiGreen, to automatically track workouts and eco-friendly transportation. These programs display motivational pictures on the phone's background screen, motivating users to maintain their exercise routine and green habits.

SourceUniversity of Washington·DateNov 19, 2008

UNC study: Text messaging may help children fight off obesity

A new UNC study suggests that cell phone text messaging can be an effective tool for self-monitoring healthy behaviors in children. The study found that children who used text messaging to report their calorie intake, exercise, and screen time had a lower attrition rate and greater adherence to monitoring than those using paper diaries.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·DateNov 11, 2008

Do cell phones increase brain cancer risk?

Recent studies suggest a possible link between long-term cell phone use and increased risk of brain tumors, prompting a call for collaborative research initiatives. Scientists emphasize the need for definitive evidence to determine the risks associated with electromagnetic field exposure from cell phones.

SourceElsevier·JournalSurgical Neurology·DateOct 20, 2008

Smart alarm clock for mobile phones

The HappyWakeUp smart alarm clock uses a microphone to detect subtle changes in sleep patterns, providing an optimal wake-up time. By waking users up during their natural 'awake' period, the device helps regulate internal clocks and reduces morning stress.

SourceTampere University of Technology·DateSep 23, 2008
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.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

As good as it gets?

A study by Brandeis University suggests that age-related differences exist in how people view their past, present, and future expectations. Younger adults tend to be more optimistic about their future, while older adults are more realistic and accurate in their predictions.

SourceBrandeis University·JournalPsychological Science·DateSep 11, 2008

Montrealers 3 minutes away from a video lottery terminal

A concentration of video lottery terminals (VLTs) in underprivileged Montreal neighborhoods poses a risk to public health due to easy access. Researchers Éric Robitaille and Patrick Herjean found that over 96% of Park Extension residents can walk to a VLT within three minutes.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalInternational Journal of Health Geographics·DateSep 8, 2008

'Can you see me now?' Sign language over cell phones comes to United States

A team of US engineers has successfully developed software that enables deaf and hard-of-hearing Americans to communicate using American Sign Language (ASL) over mobile phones. The breakthrough allows for real-time video communication, making it a significant improvement over text messaging, which can convey emotion but is slower.

SourceUniversity of Washington·DateAug 21, 2008

Telemedicine leads to better stroke treatment decisions

A study by UC San Diego researchers found that telemedicine leads to better treatment decisions for stroke patients compared to telephone consultations. The STRokE DOC technology enabled doctors to make correct decisions over 98% of the time, resulting in improved patient outcomes.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalThe Lancet Neurology·DateAug 2, 2008
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.

Stepping up to the challenge: A tall order

Researchers studied skyscraper run-ups to understand how athletes perform under high-intensity conditions, revealing the importance of anaerobic energy metabolism in maintaining speed. The findings suggest that top performers can maintain their pace by strategically dosing their initial effort.

SourceSociety for Experimental Biology·DateJul 8, 2008

Mobile users make same mistakes as disabled PC users

Researchers at the University of Manchester found that able-bodied mobile users replicate errors made by physically impaired desktop computer users, such as pressing wrong keys and clicking incorrectly. The study suggests that software solutions developed for disabled users can be applied to reduce errors on mobile devices.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·DateJul 1, 2008
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.

Cellular annoyance

A multi-national survey reveals that cell phone use is perceived differently across cultures and settings. People in Turkey are happy for phone use in class, while Italians are annoyed by taking calls at the theatre. The study highlights the importance of understanding social impact on goodwill when utilizing mobile communications.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Mobile Communications·DateJun 24, 2008

Experimental phone network uses virtual sticky notes

Researchers developed a system that enables users to access location-specific, real-time information from other mobile phone users across the world. The virtual sticky note application combines capabilities of distributed networks, social networks, and geographic positioning technologies.

SourceDuke University·DateJun 19, 2008

Excessive mobile phone use affects sleep in teens

Teenagers who excessively use their cell phones are more prone to disrupted sleep, restlessness, stress, and fatigue. The study found that young people with excessive mobile phone use behave like larks rather than owls, suggesting a delayed biological clock. It is recommended that adolescents get nine hours of nightly sleep.

SourceAmerican Academy of Sleep Medicine·DateJun 9, 2008

Engineers harness cell phone technology for use in medical imaging

Researchers at UC Berkeley developed a system that uses cell phones for medical imaging, reducing costs and increasing accessibility. The system consists of a data acquisition device connected to a central server where the image is processed, making it possible to view images on a cell phone screen.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 29, 2008
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.