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Business professors study ideal responses to ransomware attacks

A new study by University of Texas at Arlington professors explores how businesses respond to ransomware attacks and finds that negotiating with attackers may not be the best approach. The researchers suggest that companies should prioritize investing in cybersecurity to avoid long-term risks.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalManagement Science·DateJun 30, 2021

Does the Milky Way move like a spinning top?

New study questions precession in the Milky Way's warp, suggesting it could disappear or become slower over time. Researchers used Gaia Mission data to analyze stars' positions and velocities.

SourceInstituto de Astrofísica de Canarias (IAC)·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·DateMay 25, 2021
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.

Artificial intelligence makes great microscopes better than ever

Scientists at EMBL combined AI algorithms with advanced microscopy techniques to reduce image processing time from days to mere seconds while maintaining accuracy. This breakthrough enables researchers to track and measure fast biological processes in 3D.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalNature Methods·DateMay 7, 2021

Ever wondered what red foxes eat? There's a database for that

A new online database, CarniDIET, has been created to provide detailed information on the diets of carnivores worldwide. Users can search for data by species or country and access interactive maps to understand geographical variations in diet.

SourceUniversity of Sussex·JournalGlobal Ecology and Biogeography·DateMar 30, 2021

A new dye shakes up solar cells

Researchers have developed a new dye called MS5 that significantly enhances the efficiency of dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs), which are already being manufactured on a large scale. The new dye produces an open-circuit voltage of 1.24 Volts and achieves a power conversion efficiency of 13.5%, surpassing previous records in the field.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 19, 2021

The strange impact of the first consumer review

Research shows that a single negative first review can cause a product to fail and affect future reviews for up to three years. Retailers can mitigate this impact by detecting and addressing negative early reviews.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalMarketing Science·DateFeb 4, 2021
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.

Presidential inaugurations boost tourism, but not this year

New research from West Virginia University economists finds that presidential inaugurations have gained popularity as must-see tourist events in recent years. Hotel occupancy rates around the inaugurations were significantly higher than other events, with increases seen prior to and after the ceremony.

SourceWest Virginia University·JournalTourism Economics·DateJan 14, 2021

Experiences of underrepresented graduate students in STEM

Research on chemistry PhD students reveals women from historically marginalized groups have fewer positive interactions with advisors and less financial support. Despite this, students from underrepresented groups are more likely to express commitment to scholastic goals when supported by faculty members from similar backgrounds.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 11, 2021

Airdropping sensors from moths

University of Washington researchers develop a 98mg sensor system that can be released from drones or insects and land safely without breaking, collecting data for almost three years. The system uses a magnetic pin to hold the sensor, which is then released using a wireless command, allowing for remote monitoring in hard-to-reach areas.

SourceUniversity of Washington·DateOct 7, 2020
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.

Tool transforms world landmark photos into 4D experiences

Researchers at Cornell University developed a method to create maneuverable 3D images showing changes in appearance over time using deep learning and tens of thousands of publicly available tourist photos. The tool, called Deep Multiplane Images, allows users to explore scenes from different viewpoints and time frames.

SourceCornell University·DateSep 8, 2020

Highly sensitive dopamine detector uses 2D materials

A supersensitive dopamine detector developed using 2D materials can help diagnose disorders such as Parkinson's disease and schizophrenia. The detector is low-cost, flexible, and can detect dopamine in real-time, making it a promising tool for non-invasive monitoring.

SourcePenn State·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 7, 2020

Gut feelings can be good for us

A study led by Jennifer Todd at Anglia Ruskin University found that paying attention to internal bodily sensations can increase appreciation of one's body. The researchers measured gastric interoception and found a link between feelings of fullness and positive body image in adults from the UK and Malaysia.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalBody Image·DateJul 30, 2020

Candidates who use humor on Twitter may find the joke is on them

A new study from Ohio State University found that using humor on social media can lead to a decrease in credibility and support for candidates. Participants who viewed humorous tweets were more likely to rate the candidate as less credible and less likely to vote for them.

SourceOhio State University·JournalCommunication Research Reports·DateJun 15, 2020
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.

Jones named fellow of the Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers

Erick C. Jones, a renowned researcher at the University of Texas at Arlington, has been recognized as a Fellow of the Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers (IISE). He is internationally recognized for his pioneering work on radio-frequency identification technologies, Lean Six Sigma Quality Management, and autonomous inventory ...

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateMay 13, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

'Feeling obligated' can impact relationships during social distancing

A Michigan State University study found that people distinguish between massive and simple obligations, with the latter creating a 'norm of reciprocity' and strengthening relationships. Obligations that disrupt daily life or create financial burdens can harm relationships.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalInternational Journal of Behavioral Development·DateMar 19, 2020

For anxious spouses, a baby may be a rival

A new study found that partners with relationship anxiety before having a child are more likely to feel jealous of the baby. The research suggests that expectant parents should be aware of their relationship style before having their first baby, as this may help them deal with feelings more constructively.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Social and Personal Relationships·DateMar 3, 2020

Li developing robust design of chemical gas sensor arrays

The research aims to provide an effective and efficient simulation technology for designing high-performance gas sensors and sensor arrays. The team will model physisorption and chemisorption of gas molecules on sensor surfaces and study environmental effects.

SourceGeorge Mason University·DateFeb 7, 2020
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.

Ooh là là! Music evokes 13 key emotions. Scientists have mapped them

A study of over 2,500 people in the US and China identified 13 universal emotional responses to music, including amusement, joy, and relaxation. The research provides a framework for understanding how music evokes emotions across cultures and has potential applications in psychology, therapy, and music streaming services.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 6, 2020
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.

Beauty in the biased eye of the beholder

A study published in Journal of Vision found that our aesthetic assessment is biased by the artwork seen previously. Observers rated paintings higher following an attractive painting and lower after an unattractive one, revealing a positive serial dependence effect.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalJournal of Vision·DateNov 19, 2019

Study dissects attitudes on short-term vacation rentals

A new study conducted at the University of Georgia found that feelings of neighborhood pride and interactions with tourists influence residents' attitudes towards short-term vacation rentals. The study, which surveyed residents in Savannah, Georgia, suggests that well-designed regulations can foster support for these types of rentals.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalJournal of Travel Research·DateNov 14, 2019
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Research could help flexible technology last longer, avoid critical failures

Researchers have developed a new flexible membrane that guides cracks away from critical components, increasing the functional lifespan of biomedical devices. The study, led by Binghamton University Associate Professor Guy German, uses human skin topography as a model to direct cracks in the best way possible.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 24, 2019

Hear them roar: How humans and chickadees understand each other

A recent study by University of Alberta scientists found that both humans and black-capped chickadees can detect high-arousal vocalizations from other species. This ability suggests an innate capacity for understanding emotional states through sound, shared among vocal learners like humans and songbirds.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalJournal of Comparative Psychology·DateJul 12, 2019
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

First step towards a better prosthetic leg? Trip people over and over

A Vanderbilt team designed a device that captures the natural stumble response of people with two legs, a challenge for those with prosthetic legs. By tripping test subjects 190 times, they aimed to program computer-controlled prosthetics to prevent more falls.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalJournal of NeuroEngineering and Rehabilitation·DateJun 19, 2019

Workplace discrimination: If they don't fit, they always call in sick?

A study by Florian Kunze and Max Reinwald found that employees who don't fit in teams experience discrimination and absenteeism, which can lead to significant losses for companies. The researchers observed over 800 teams in a Swiss-based service company over seven years and found that dissimilar team members accrue more days of absence.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalAcademy of Management Journal·DateMay 8, 2019

Lure of the 'loot box' looks a lot like gambling

A new study by University of British Columbia researchers found a correlation between excessive engagement with loot boxes and measures of problem gambling, but not problem video gaming. Loot box use was associated with risky gambling behaviours, suggesting that the feature may be contributing to gambling-like problems in gamers.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalAddictive Behaviors·DateMay 1, 2019
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.

A surprise: Bonobos eat and share meat at rates similar to chimpanzees

Researchers from the University of Oregon found that female bonobos control meat consumption and sharing, similar to male-dominated chimpanzees. They also observed aggressive behavior towards adult males trying to take pieces of meat, but showed tolerance with subadult males.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalFolia Primatologica·DateApr 29, 2019

Can artificial intelligence solve the mysteries of quantum physics?

A study published in Physical Review Letters demonstrates that algorithms based on deep neural networks can better understand quantum physics phenomena. Researchers found a way to harness AI to enhance understanding of quantum behavior, potentially revolutionizing various aspects of life.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 12, 2019

A robotic leg, born without prior knowledge, learns to walk

A team of USC researchers developed an AI-controlled robotic limb that can learn a new walking task in 5 minutes and adapt to other tasks without programming. The robot uses bio-inspired algorithms to build an internal map of its limb and environment, enabling it to develop personalized movements.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalNature Machine Intelligence·DateMar 11, 2019

A groove is better with rhythm and harmony, new research shows

A new study published in PLOS ONE found that medium syncopation rhythms with simple and medium harmony complexity elicited the highest ratings of pleasure and movement. Harmony boosts the inverted U curve effect, making listeners want to move more when combined with rhythm.

SourceConcordia University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 6, 2019

Balloons the No. 1 marine debris risk of mortality for seabirds

A new study found that balloons are the most lethal marine debris for seabirds, with a single piece killing 20% of seabirds and nine pieces killing 50%, while blockages or infections caused by gastrointestinal obstructions were leading causes of death

SourceUniversity of Tasmania·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 1, 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.

Exposing flaws in metrics for user login systems

Researchers found that 94% of recent authentication systems have flaws in their reported performance metrics, leading to potential security consequences. A novel solution proposes combining two metrics to measure the success of user login systems.

SourceRutgers University·DateFeb 26, 2019

Waiting for the complete rupture

Researchers from ETH Zurich developed a new model that simulates earthquake cycles in the Himalayas, predicting powerful earthquakes with a periodicity of 400 to 600 years. The model shows that medium-sized earthquakes can create conditions for even larger ones, leading to complete stress release in the rupture zone.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 16, 2019

Researchers create first sensor package that can ride aboard bees

Engineers at the University of Washington have developed a sensing system that can ride on top of a bumblebee, allowing for long-term data collection without power constraints. The system uses a tiny rechargeable battery and a receiver to triangulate the bee's position, enabling precise location tracking.

SourceUniversity of Washington·DateDec 12, 2018
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.

Tenacious and flexible goal pursuit gets older people on the move

A recent study at the University of Jyväskylä found that older people who persistently strive for their goals but can adjust them to current circumstances tend to move more and participate in outdoor activities. This suggests that tenacity and flexibility are essential resources for maintaining autonomy and quality of life in old age.

SourceUniversity of Jyväskylä - Jyväskylän yliopisto·JournalAging Clinical and Experimental Research·DateDec 11, 2018

No cooperation without open communication

Researchers develop a new, more realistic model of human interaction, finding that cooperation is unstable without open communication. The study reveals that even a single difference of opinion can lead to dramatic effects and polarization in the population.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 12, 2018

MIT system aims to prevent attacks made possible by Meltdown/Spectre

The MIT CSAIL team has developed a new approach called DAWG to securely partition cache memory, making it harder for hackers to exploit Meltdown and Spectre vulnerabilities. This method can have immediate applications in cloud computing, especially in fields like medicine and finance.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology, CSAIL·DateOct 18, 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.

Physics model finds that SCOTUS 'Super Court' votes are non-partisan

A physics model applied to a 'Super Court' of Supreme Justices found that consensus dominates the court's decisions, with strong correlations in voting persisting beyond individual justices' tenures. The study reveals that partisan issues are more complex than simple intuition suggests, and votes against prevailing opinions are probable.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of Statistical Physics·DateOct 11, 2018

New research helps to instill persistence in children

A new psychology study suggests that using verbs to talk about actions with children can lead to more resilience following setbacks. In contrast, asking children to be helpers or readers may hinder their perseverance.

SourceNew York University·JournalChild Development·DateSep 19, 2018

Robot can pick up any object after inspecting it

Researchers at MIT CSAIL have developed a robot system that can inspect and understand objects, allowing it to perform specific tasks such as picking up objects from a cluttered space. The system, called Dense Object Nets, uses a self-supervised approach and doesn't require human annotations.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology, CSAIL·DateSep 10, 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.