Add BrightSurf on Google Email

An immersive tactile book for blind children

A team from UNIGE created a book with tactile illustrations that associate sounds with objects, enabling visually impaired children to identify them more easily. The combination of gestures, shapes, and sounds helps bridge the gap between visual and tactile experiences.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalBritish Journal of Visual Impairment·TypeNews article·DateJun 5, 2023
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.

Activity sessions in daycare already nurturing emotional skills by 10 weeks

Researchers from the University of Helsinki found that daycare centers using SAGA and Pikkuli interventions strengthened children's ability to help others, reduced internalising problems, and advanced social orientation. The studies showed positive experiences among early childhood educators, leading to further development of the methods.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalScandinavian Journal of Educational Research·TypeObservational study·DateMay 24, 2023

Is it too late to change your mind? Study reveals ‘developmental window’ for thinking styles

A recent study found that a person's epistemic thinking style can be shaped by their social, political and economic environment during the first 25 years of life. The research suggests that those who experienced a transition to democracy in middle age tend to exhibit absolutist thinking, while younger generations with higher education ...

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 12, 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.

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.

Internet access must become human right or we risk ever-widening inequality

A new study calls for internet access to be declared a basic human right to address socio-economic disparities. In developing countries, internet access can determine education, healthcare, housing, and employment outcomes. The study advocates for free internet access and digital skills training to ensure equal opportunities.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalPolitics Philosophy & Economics·TypeMeta-analysis·DateApr 7, 2023

Survival is a disgusting matter

A recent study published in Journal of Animal Ecology has identified disease avoidance strategies in various animal species, including humans. The research provides insights into how emotions like disgust help protect against diseases and has implications for human health and conservation efforts.

SourceKyoto University·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 5, 2023

Study uncovers social consequences of using AI in conversations

A study by Cornell University researchers found that using AI in conversations improves communication efficiency and positive emotional language, but participants perceive their partner as less cooperative when suspected of using AI-suggested responses.

SourceCornell University·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 5, 2023

Cancer-associated fibroblasts: Challenges and opportunities

Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are a type of cell that plays a crucial role in the tumor microenvironment. The authors suggest that understanding CAFs is essential for developing effective cancer therapies. Research targeting CAFs has shown promise, but challenges remain due to their complex nature.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateApr 5, 2023
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Study finds higher risk of sleep problems in gay, lesbian, and bisexual youth

A new national study finds that lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) youth are twice as likely to report trouble falling or staying asleep than their straight peers. This is attributed to greater depression, stress, and family conflict among LGB youth, which can make it harder for them to get a good night's sleep.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalLGBT Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 24, 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.

Short-distance migration critical for climate change adaptation

A new study from the University of East Anglia finds that most people migrate short distances within their own country to adapt to climate change. The research reveals that everyday mobility is a crucial aspect of managing different shocks and stresses, including increasing climate variability.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalEcology and Society·TypeObservational study·DateMar 7, 2023

Greater gender equality helps both women and men live longer

A global study has found that greater gender equality is associated with longer life expectancy for both women and men. The study, published in the lead up to International Women's Day, suggests that addressing longstanding gender inequality can help extend longevity for all genders.

SourceGeorge Institute for Global Health·JournalPLOS Global Public Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 6, 2023

Physicians should screen youth for cyberbullying, social media use

Primary care physicians recommend screening adolescents and young adults for cyberbullying and social media misuse, citing the need for timely intervention due to underreported incidents. Screening tools like R-OBVQ, CBVS, CABS, and MARC can help identify potential risks.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalPrimary Care Clinics in Office Practice·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMar 2, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Parental support for LGBTQ youth is important, research shows

Research shows that parental social support and psychological control significantly impact LGBTQ youth's depressive symptoms. High psychological control, however, was linked with more depressive symptoms in those whose parents did not know their identities.

SourceSociety for Research in Child Development·JournalChild Development·DateFeb 28, 2023
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.

Chinese Medical Journal study highlights epilepsy trends in China between 1990 and 2019

A Chinese Medical Journal study analyzed the temporal and spatial distribution of epilepsy across China, finding significant increases in incidence and prevalence rates between 1990 and 2019. The study also showed a general decrease in age-standardized DALY rates with increasing socio-demographic index.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalChinese Medical Journal·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 15, 2023

Least wealthy people more likely to have mental health disorder later in life

A nationwide Finnish study found that around 58% of people with low educational attainment by age 30 will have a diagnosis of a mental disorder by age 52. The study also showed a stronger association between lower socioeconomic position and later diagnoses of substance misuse or schizophrenia spectrum disorders.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 6, 2023

Communities that suffered rapid manufacturing job losses fare worse on sustainability

A study found that communities experiencing sudden and significant job losses in manufacturing are less likely to engage in sustainability planning and meet sustainability-related goals. This is attributed to deep-rooted connections between industry and community identity, making it difficult for these communities to transition.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalEnvironmental Innovation and Societal Transitions·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 1, 2023
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.

Prairie voles without oxytocin receptors can bond with mates and young

Research reveals that prairie voles can form enduring pair-bonds and provide parental care without oxytocin receptor signaling, contradicting previous studies. While mutant voles lack milk release, they still nurse and rear pups to weaning age, suggesting species-specific roles of oxytocin receptor signaling.

SourceCell Press·JournalNeuron·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 27, 2023

Reading project which pairs old and young boosts wellbeing among children and the elderly, analysis shows

A reading project that pairs school-age children with older adults has been found to boost wellbeing among both groups. The Silver Stories programme built relationships between generations and helped children develop social skills and confidence, while also fighting loneliness for listeners.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalCambridge Journal of Education·TypeObservational study·DateJan 16, 2023
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.

Noise from urban environments affects the color of songbirds’ beaks

A Florida Atlantic University study found that urban noise exposure during development affects the color of songbirds' beaks, which influence social interactions and mate choice. Males developed less bright beak coloration, while females developed brighter orange coloration than untreated birds.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·Journalacta ethologica·TypeObservational study·DateJan 12, 2023

Do the negative ways that others treat us contribute to later self-harm?

A new longitudinal study examines neural-based correlates and risk factors for nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) among adolescents. The study found that greater amygdala reactivity during anticipation of social punishment predicted NSSI engagement one year later, particularly in those with lower peer-nominated social preference.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·TypeObservational study·DateJan 5, 2023

What pretend play tells us about social cognition

Children as young as two engage in pretend play, demonstrating ability to distinguish between pretence and reality. This cognitive skill allows them to adopt different perspectives, even in the presence of others, suggesting early-stage development of social cognition.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalSynthese·TypeObservational study·DateDec 16, 2022

Risk of population disruption as a result of decarbonization

The study suggests that increased demand for energy transition metals could be more disruptive to some communities than winding back production of thermal coal. An additional 115.7 million people would be at risk from disruption by ETMs.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalNature Communications·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 15, 2022

Co-working spaces limit creativity in the long run, finds new study

A new study by Bayes Business School found that co-working spaces can initially support collective exploration but ultimately inhibit collaborative practices. The study suggests that firms leave the space as interactions become less meaningful and stilted over time.

SourceCity St George’s, University of London·JournalOrganization·TypeCase study·DateDec 8, 2022
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.

Ant pupae secrete fluid as "milk" to nurture young larvae

Researchers discovered that ant pupae secrete a fluid that is consumed by both adults and larvae, highlighting the interconnectedness of different developmental stages within an ant colony. The fluid, derived from molting, is rich in nutrients and psychoactive substances, essential for larval growth and adult metabolism.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalNature·DateNov 30, 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.

Gene that guides earliest social behaviors could be key to understanding autism

A new animal study points to a gene that controls early social behaviors and may be linked to autism. Exposure to certain drugs during embryonic development can alter this gene, leading to social behavior changes similar to those found in individuals with autism. Researchers were able to reverse some effects using an experimental drug.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 23, 2022

Finding equity in climate mitigation finance

A new IIASA-led study estimates that global climate goals can be met in a cost-effective manner with fair financial flows, but current pledged funding is insufficient. The researchers recommend increasing financing from rich countries to poorer regions to meet the Paris Agreement targets under most equity considerations.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalScience·DateNov 17, 2022

Rising housing cost to income ratio strongly linked to poor health, death, suicide

An international study found that housing cost to income ratio is strongly associated with preventable deaths and suicide in developed countries. However, social spending on pension and unemployment benefits can lower these risks. Housing policy measures such as public housing stock and rent controls also show protective effects.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·TypeObservational study·DateNov 16, 2022
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.

Scientists cite need for more research on leadership development in adolescence

The study proposes a multidisciplinary developmental perspective to understand leadership in adolescence, highlighting the importance of studying youth leadership and its impact on society. Researchers aim to develop leadership interventions to maximize potential and facilitate better diversification of the leadership pipeline.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalPerspectives on Psychological Science·TypeLiterature review·DateNov 9, 2022

Neuronal mechanism involved in the learning of maternal behavior discovered

A study published in The EMBO Journal reveals that the anterior cingulate cortex is activated in female mice acquiring maternal behavior through repeated experience with pups. This discovery provides a potential basis for developing therapeutic options for postpartum depression and other conditions disrupting mother-child bonding.

SourceMedical University of Vienna·JournalThe EMBO Journal·DateNov 8, 2022

Tropical cyclones act as 'massive heat pumps' that fuel extreme heat

A new study by the University of Arizona found that tropical cyclones often follow extreme heat, which can be a major hazard after a storm. The research team analyzed 53 tropical cyclones and found that cities' heat index values were always warmer than average after the storm.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 8, 2022

Violence on TV: the effects can stretch from age 3 into the teens

A new study led by Linda Pagani found that watching violent TV during the preschool years can lead to later risks of psychological and academic impairment. Exposure to typical violent screen content at a critical time in brain development can predict later psychological distress and academic risks.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalJournal of Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics·TypeSurvey·DateNov 8, 2022

Rice, Baylor to study how screen use affects young children

A team of researchers from Rice University, Baylor College of Medicine, and Northern Illinois University are developing an open source system called FLASH to objectively measure children's screen-viewing behaviors. The five-year grant includes funding for three long-term studies on the impacts of screen use on young children.

SourceRice University·DateNov 7, 2022
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.

Sensitivity to musical rhythm supports social development in infants

Researchers found that the universal behavior of singing to infants synchronizes caregiver-infant social engagement, supporting social development. Infants as young as 2 months old show a synchronized eye-look to caregivers' eyes when singing is rhythmically predictable.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 2, 2022

Gut bacteria are essential for development of social behavior in fish

Germ-free zebrafish larvae have altered neural connections due to reduced microglia pruning by immune cells. Reintroducing normal microbiota restores normal development and social behavior. Microorganisms stimulate microglial activity, promoting neural connection remodeling.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 1, 2022

Safety net program shown effective in helping low-income households recover their livelihood following natural disasters

The Program Keluarga Harapan (PKH) has shown positive results in helping poor households develop proactive coping strategies before and during natural disasters. Researchers found that the existing program strengthened financial capital but had limited impact on human and physical capitals, highlighting the need for integrated social p...

SourceYokohama National University·JournalInternational Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction·DateOct 31, 2022

Collaborative food is medicine initiative launches in Mississippi delta

A collaborative effort aims to lower rates of obesity and diabetes by increasing access to locally produced fruits and vegetables in the Mississippi Delta. The $6.6 million NIH grant will fund community-based programs to expand local production and consumption of healthy foods, targeting high-risk areas with high rates of these diseases.

SourceTufts University, Health Sciences Campus·DateOct 27, 2022
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.

Study: how early fears play role in future anxiety, depression

A longitudinal imaging study found that early risk factors, such as inhibited behavior and blunted ventral striatum activity, are associated with later depression. Inhibited children who showed reduced brain activity in response to rewards were more likely to develop depression in young adulthood.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateOct 26, 2022

To be less sedentary, you may need a more active friend

A mathematical model suggests that social interactions between sedentary and moderately active people can stimulate higher levels of overall physical activity in a population. The model found that interacting with moderately active individuals helped sedentary populations become more physically active over time.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 19, 2022
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.