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Ohio State University


Ending prices with “.99” can backfire on sellers

A new study from Ohio State University found that pricing just below a round number can lead consumers to perceive a product as cheaper and less likely to upgrade. This threshold-crossing effect was observed in various experiments, including coffee stands and car purchases.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 26, 2021

Batters move their heads to keep their eyes on the ball

Researchers found that batters keep their eye on the ball but move their head to direct their gaze. The study suggests that this movement may help reduce visual calculations needed for accurate bat placement. Further investigation is needed to determine if eye-gaze-based training can improve batting performance.

SourceOhio State University·JournalOptometry and Vision Science·TypeLiterature review·DateAug 12, 2021

A COVID-19 vaccine strategy to give the body ‘border protection’

A new research strategy enhances COVID-19 vaccine effectiveness by providing 'border protection' immunity in the nose, mouth and blood. The approach involves suppressing an enzyme that breaks down both pathogens and immune cells, resulting in a robust antibody response and improved protection against infections.

SourceOhio State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 11, 2021

The first real snapshot of algal bloom toxins in Lake Erie

A new study by Ohio State University provides the most accurate estimates of microcystin toxins in Lake Erie's western basin, revealing fluctuating concentrations over short distances. The research emphasizes the importance of frequent data collection to improve water safety and forecasting for the lake's estimated 11 million people.

SourceOhio State University·JournalHarmful Algae·TypeObservational study·DateAug 5, 2021

Race, politics divide Americans on sports issues

A new study by Ohio State University researchers found sharp divisions among Americans on whether college athletes should be paid and whether it's acceptable for pro athletes to protest racial injustice during the national anthem. The study analyzed opinions from over 1,400 Americans, revealing strong links between race, ethnicity, and...

SourceOhio State University·JournalDu Bois Review Social Science Research on Race·DateJul 16, 2021

US presidents' narcissism linked to international conflict

A new study suggests that US presidents with high levels of narcissism are more likely to initiate conflicts with other great power countries, accounting for factors such as political party and military experience. The research found that the top three most narcissistic presidents initiated nearly all of their disputes alone.

SourceOhio State University·JournalInternational Studies Quarterly·DateJun 28, 2021

Those breakfast foods are fortified for a reason

A new study suggests that skipping breakfast leads to a nutritional gap, with adults who skip morning meals likely missing out on calcium, vitamin C, and fiber. The research analyzed data from over 30,000 American adults and found that those who skipped breakfast had lower intakes of essential nutrients for the entire day.

SourceOhio State University·JournalProceedings of The Nutrition Society·DateJun 15, 2021

Horror films as a reimagined space for healing

Researcher Morgan Podraza examines the representation of trauma in horror films, arguing that the final girl trope can be reimagined as a space for healing and futures for people with trauma. The analysis highlights the need to acknowledge trauma and its ongoing effects, rather than just focusing on survival.

SourceOhio State University·JournalHorror Studies·DateMay 28, 2021

Visits to 'crisis pregnancy centers' common in Ohio

A new study found that nearly one in seven Ohio women of reproductive age has visited a crisis pregnancy center, which are often funded by state dollars but not regulated by the medical board. This can lead to concerns about access to proper medical care and potential misinformation about reproductive health.

SourceOhio State University·JournalContraception·DateMay 27, 2021

Why a vacation seems like it will end as soon as it begins

Researchers found that people anticipate positive events, such as vacations, as being both farther away and shorter in duration than negative or neutral events. This phenomenon can lead to a feeling that the vacation will end as soon as it begins, making people less likely to plan specific events during their time off.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Consumer Psychology·DateMay 26, 2021

Meaningful movies help people cope with life's difficulties

A study found that watching meaningful films like 'Hotel Rwanda' can make people feel more prepared to deal with life's challenges. These films are associated with positive reactions such as feeling a sense of purpose and being motivated to pursue significant goals. The key elements of these films, including poignancy and emotional ran...

SourceOhio State University·JournalMass Communication & Society·DateMay 10, 2021

Many Hispanics died of COVID-19 because of work exposure

A new study by Ohio State University researchers suggests that Hispanic Americans are disproportionately affected by COVID-19 due to workplace exposure. The analysis of federal data showed that Hispanics of working age have died of COVID-19 at a higher rate than whites, with excess cases and deaths also highest among this group.

SourceOhio State University·JournalDemographic Research·DateApr 29, 2021

Using exoplanets as dark matter detectors

Researchers propose using exoplanet temperatures as a new method for detecting dark matter. By analyzing the effect of dark matter on exoplanet temperatures, scientists hope to gain insights into this mysterious substance. The study suggests that exoplanets could be used to detect both light and dark matter.

SourceOhio State University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateApr 22, 2021