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Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Moral behavior pays off

A game-theory-based approach explains the emergence of moral norms through the coupling of two games: social dilemma and coordination tasks. Cooperation can pay off when individuals prioritize group benefits over personal interests, leading to a self-sacrificing behavior that benefits all parties.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 18, 2022

Chinese incursions into India are increasing, strategically planned

A new study found that Chinese incursions into Aksai Chin region are not random, but part of a strategically planned effort to gain control. The researchers believe deterrents could be established in specific areas to defuse tensions along the entire border.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 10, 2022

Reward for cooperative behavior

A study by Max-Planck Researchers found that individuals learn to use rewards specifically to promote good behavior when others also learn about them. The researchers used game theory to explain how reputation affects cooperation and rewarding policies.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateOct 28, 2022
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.

New approach would improve user access to electric vehicle charging stations

Researchers from NC State University have developed a dynamic computational tool to help improve user access to electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. The technique accounts for factors such as charging time, cost, and wait times to provide users with the most convenient options.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Intelligent Transportation Systems·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 17, 2022

Behavioral research: Study reveals that students aren’t ideal test subjects

A new study by Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg found that using only students in experiments can lead to biased results, as their decisions differ from those of other population groups. The study compared agricultural science students to farmers and found differences in risk-taking, patience, trust, and generosity.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalAustralian Journal of Agricultural and Resource Economics·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 12, 2022

Safe havens for cooperation

A research team used game theory to analyze cooperation in networks and found that networks with a high level of cooperation can emerge if individuals take a clear-cut position against free riders. The study also showed that if contributors leave an environment too quickly, it leads to a lower level of cooperation.

SourceUniversity of Oldenburg·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 11, 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.

For a smooth-running economy, rule of law matters

A study by the University of Texas at Austin found that countries with strong rule of law have less economic volatility and higher productivity. Weak rule of law leads to poor contract enforcement, causing employee morale to suffer, ultimately sparking churn and economic instability.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalJournal of Monetary Economics·DateJun 6, 2022

New model could improve matches between students and schools

A new model developed by Iowa State University researchers could improve matches between students and schools, reducing stress and inefficiencies in the admissions process. The algorithm pairs most students with their top choice schools, while also considering factors such as competition for seats and financial constraints.

SourceIowa State University·JournalGames and Economic Behavior·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 18, 2022

New study describes multi-agent systems for optimization and decision-making through games

Researchers used game theory to create models of cooperative and competitive behaviors in multi-agent systems, focusing on distributed online optimization, federated optimization, and static/dynamic games. The findings have potential applications in smart cities, market competition, information security, and drug development.

SourceChinese Association of Automation·JournalIEEE/CAA Journal of Automatica Sinica·DateMay 10, 2022

Gaming the known and unknown via puzzle solving

Researchers develop a new AI agent that uses four strategies to solve single-agent stochastic puzzles like Minesweeper, achieving comparable performance to state-of-the-art studies. The approach defines solvability in this context and establishes the boundary between puzzle-solving and game-playing paradigms.

SourceJapan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology·JournalKnowledge-Based Systems·DateApr 14, 2022

Management researchers prescribe possible remedy in opioid misuse

A decision-support framework was developed by management science researchers to help clinicians make informed decisions about opioid prescribing. The framework incorporates multiple factors, including recovery time, pain intensity, and patient history, to provide a quantitative model of the prescribing process.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalDecision Analysis·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 14, 2022
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

What are the motives behind cronyism?

A novel experimental design study reveals cronyism is profitable for those who engage in it, driven by beliefs in reciprocity and favoritism. Shared identity motivates even low-quality workers to reciprocate trust with greater effort.

SourceWiley·JournalEconomic Inquiry·DateApr 6, 2022

Viruses and game theory

Phages weigh all options and make an informed decision whether to exit the dormant state and attack their bacterial host. The study found that some phage families have developed a complex decision-making strategy, receiving information from neighboring bacteria and controlling communication via arbitrium.

SourceTel-Aviv University·JournalNature Microbiology·DateJan 5, 2022

New tool models fairer electricity trade

Researchers propose a new model for electricity trade that balances economic interests and considers the stability of economic ties. The model suggests ways to improve cooperation between nations and prioritize transit country interests.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalIEEE Transactions on Power Systems·DateDec 15, 2021

Re-identifying faces from genomic data is more difficult than previously thought

Researchers found that re-identifying individuals from genomic data using public face images is harder than previously thought, with success rates well below idealized settings. They developed a method to alter social media photos and reduce the risk of privacy breaches.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalScience Advances·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 18, 2021
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.

Game theory and economics show how to steer evolution in a better direction

Researchers use game theory and economics to steer evolution in a better direction, identifying conditions for improved outcomes through policy changes and coordination. The study provides a mathematical formula to determine when evolution managers will have sufficient incentive to steward biological resources.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 16, 2021

Using game theory to analyse the metastasis process

Researchers from UPV/EHU and Biocruces pathologists use game theory to study tumor cell interactions, finding that higher cell diversity may be beneficial for patients. This approach reveals the importance of collective stability in tumor cells' pursuit of better environments.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalCancers·DateOct 18, 2021

Using quantum Parrondo’s random walks for encryption

Assistant Professor Kang Hao Cheong and his team discovered that chaotic switching for quantum coin Parrondo's games has similar underlying ideas to encryption. They found that using pre-generated chaotic sequences enhances the work, making it easier to invert the encrypted message to obtain the original state.

SourceSingapore University of Technology and Design·JournalPhysical Review Research·DateOct 15, 2021

How to haggle

Researchers found that a low opening offer can be effective if it's within a 'fair game' window, avoiding negative emotions, but not so low that it backfires. A balance must be struck to achieve a better outcome in negotiations.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalTheory and Decision·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 28, 2021

Researchers reveal suboptimal conditions of platform bundling strategy

The study found that upstream suppliers increase retail prices to compel platforms to use bundling strategies, reducing profits and social welfare. The researchers propose not bundling sales in advance to mitigate this effect and improve consumer value.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalProduction and Operations Management·DateSep 4, 2021
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.

Using machine learning to understand complex auctions

Researchers at Technical University of Munich have developed a new machine learning algorithm that can analyze complex markets and their equilibrium strategies. This breakthrough has potential applications in auction theory, wireless spectrum auctions, and more.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature Machine Intelligence·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 1, 2021

National parochialism is widespread around the world

A study of 42 countries reveals that most participants prefer to collaborate with fellow citizens rather than with people from other countries. The tendency towards in-group bias is driven by factors such as education level and gender, but not by cultural differences or national cohesion.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 9, 2021

Humans are ready to take advantage of benevolent AI

A new study found that people trust AI as much as humans, but are unwilling to compromise and cooperate with machines. Researchers conducted large-scale online studies using methods from behavioral game theory, finding a consistent pattern of 'algorithm exploitation' where humans exploit AI's benevolence for personal gain.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournaliScience·DateJun 10, 2021

Radicalized and believing in conspiracies: Can the cycle be broken?

A recent study suggests that improving economic conditions can reduce radicalization efforts, but trying to render people psychologically less susceptible can backfire. Conspiracies have become a powerful tool for far-right groups to manipulate public discourse and drive the growing radicalization of average Americans.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalAmerican Journal of Political Science·DateJun 8, 2021

Games, computing, and the mind: How search algorithms reflect game playing

Scientists at JAIST explored the connection between game-playing search tree algorithms and human decision-making, proposing two indicators - PPN and SCN - to analyze potential future states. These findings have applications in AI, optimization problems, and entertainment analysis.

SourceJapan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology·JournalIEEE Access·DateMay 24, 2021
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

The emergence of cooperation

Researchers create unified model of direct and indirect reciprocity, demonstrating how cooperation can be a successful strategy. The study reveals that reputation and experience significantly influence willingness to cooperate, paving the way for new insights into human social norms.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateMay 13, 2021

The brain game: What causes engagement and addiction to video games?

Researchers at Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology have developed a model to understand the brain mechanisms behind video game addiction. They found that games can be designed to promote healthy engagement, while also addressing addictive behavior.

SourceJapan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology·JournalIEEE Access·DateMay 11, 2021
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.

COVID-19: what strategies are beneficial to the state

Researchers from HSE University analyzed human behavior strategies during COVID-19 restrictions, showing that unequal access to medical care contributes to irresponsible behavior. Targeted information campaigns for healthy populations can encourage compliance with restrictions if expected losses are significant.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalPublic Administration Issues·DateDec 18, 2020

A better kind of cybersecurity strategy

A new paper suggests that traditional deterrence strategies in cybersecurity can lead to escalation and counterproductive responses. The authors propose a more judicious approach involving selective retaliation based on improved detection and information gathering.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalAmerican Political Science Review·DateDec 9, 2020
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

A new mathematical front to understand species coexistence

Researchers propose a new framework to study coexistence in multi-species systems, showing that global dynamics can be predicted from pairwise interactions. The model uses time-scale separation and replicator equations to capture the essence of competition between multiple strategies.

SourceInstituto Gulbenkian de Ciencia·JournalBulletin of Mathematical Biology·DateNov 3, 2020

The gravity of play: Quantifying what we enjoy about games

Scientists at Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology developed a novel approach to quantify the psychological appeal of games. They found that the value of 'gravity in the mind' changed over time, reflecting cultural tendencies and historical trends.

SourceJapan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology·JournalIEEE Access·DateOct 20, 2020

Skat and poker: More luck than skill?

Heidelberg economists developed a rating system to measure skill levels in skat and poker. The study found that both games have over 50% luck, but skill takes over in the long term, with a skilled player winning 75% more games against an average opponent after 100 games.

SourceHeidelberg University·JournalEuropean Economic Review·DateAug 21, 2020

Is not helping a bad person good or bad?

A recent study challenges previous theoretical predictions on justified defection, a mechanism that ensures benefits are returned to cooperative individuals. Researchers found that people have a neutral attitude toward justified defection, unlike cooperation with a bad person, which is viewed as good.

SourceRissho University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 1, 2020
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.

Envy divides society

A game theoretical study by Claudius Gros shows that envy can lead to the emergence of social classes in a society. The study simulates individual behaviour in a competitive environment, where agents with different skills and opportunities interact.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateJun 17, 2020

Illuminating interactions between decision-making and the environment

A new publication in Nature Communications presents a unifying model that explains diverse interactions between decision strategy and the environment, highlighting the similarity of their features. The findings shed light on the tight-knit forces that link changes in strategic action to environmental change, and vice versa.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 19, 2020

APS tip sheet: Capturing election interference

A game theory model captures and assesses election interference by analyzing social media activity and polls, echoing the 2016 election. The model's results reflect real-world scenarios, including Russian Twitter fake accounts' influence.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·JournalPhysical Review E·DateFeb 18, 2020

Cooperation after eye contact: Gender matters

The study, conducted at FiraTàrrega market in Tàrrega, Spain, found that women are more likely to cooperate and have a better understanding of their partner's intentions. Men, on the other hand, tend to be more impulsive and less cooperative when interacting with someone of the same gender.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 30, 2020

Who's liable? The AV or the human driver?

Researchers at Columbia Engineering and Law School develop a joint fault-based liability rule using game theory to regulate self-driving car manufacturers and human drivers. They find that an optimally designed liability policy is critical to prevent moral hazard and improve traffic safety.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·DateJan 14, 2020
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.

Egg trading between hermaphroditic fish: Why would you give when you can just take?

Researchers used microeconomic models to analyze the circumstances required for reciprocal egg trading to work. The results reveal that eggs must be costly to produce and it's essential to identify cheaters before mating. This complex system of trading helps hamlets avoid a costly dilemma by dividing the reproductive role.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalThe American Naturalist·DateJan 14, 2020

Achieving optimal collaboration when goals conflict

New research reveals that knowing more about a partner's actions accelerates joint physical task collaboration. Game theory insights inform the development of robots that can interact with humans in a natural, human-like fashion.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateDec 12, 2019

Trash talk hurts, even when it comes from a robot

A study by Carnegie Mellon University researchers found that humans perform worse when played against a robot that gives discouraging remarks, and better when encouraged. The study's results have implications for automated learning, mental health treatment, and human-robot interaction.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·DateNov 19, 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.

Cooperating may result in better self-driving experience

Researchers argue that using cooperative game theory to model human-drone interactions can lead to better steering angle control and safer lane-change maneuvers. By taking into account human drivers' real-life experience, automated steering technology can achieve better shared control.

SourceChinese Association of Automation·JournalIEEE/CAA Journal of Automatica Sinica·DateNov 5, 2019

Too much inequality impedes support for public goods

Research found that high inequality reduces willingness to cooperate in groups, but some inequality can help ensure everyone contributes to the public good. The study suggests policy-makers should consider the optimal level of inequality when funding public goods and services.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalNature·DateAug 14, 2019
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.

To tackle child labor, start with consumers

A new study published in Manufacturing & Service Operations Management found that consumer education campaigns can be an effective countermeasure against child labor in global supply chains. The researchers used game theory to identify strategies that manufacturers and NGOs can use to tackle suppliers' use of child labor.

SourceSingapore Management University·JournalManufacturing & Service Operations Management·DateJun 3, 2019

USC researchers imagine a cheaper, fairer marketplace for digital goods

USC researchers Bhaskar Krishnamachari and Aditya Asgaonkar propose a blockchain-based solution to reduce costs and increase efficiency in online transactions. Their system allows buyers and sellers to interact directly without third-party mediators, using smart contracts to verify honesty and disincentivize malicious behavior.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·DateMay 17, 2019
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.

How superstitions spread

A model by theoretical biologists demonstrates how superstitious beliefs can become established in a society's social norms, guiding the behavior of large groups. The research suggests that even irrational beliefs can be beneficial when correlated with others' actions, leading to coordinated behaviors.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 17, 2019

A new approach to an old question: How do we actually cooperate?

Princeton University researchers Olivia Chu and Corina Tarnita investigate how cooperation emerges in human populations, finding that smaller groups allow cooperation to thrive while limiting destructive influence. They also find that allowing for lone individuals with barriers to group entry enhances cooperation.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·DateMar 4, 2019