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New method could help nurses spot delirium quickly

Researchers have developed a two-item bedside test for detecting delirium, which takes an average of 36 seconds to perform and has a sensitivity of 93 percent. The test uses simple questions to assess cognitive function and can help doctors catch the condition earlier.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Hospital Medicine·DateSep 15, 2015

Why good people do bad things

A recent study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology found that anticipating a potential ethical dilemma can lead to improved ethical behavior. Participants who identified similar past incidents and anticipated temptation were more likely to behave honestly than those who didn't.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Booth School of Business·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateJun 5, 2015

Researchers develop new instrument to monitor atmospheric mercury

Researchers developed a new sensor to detect ambient mercury levels in the atmosphere, providing a more accurate method for measuring global human exposure. The sequential two-photon laser-induced fluorescence (2P-LIF) instrument detects mercury at parts-per-quadrillion sensitivity, outperforming existing methods.

Sweet music or sour notes? The test will tell

The Seattle Singing Accuracy Protocol (SSAP) measures how well people handle the translation from listening to singing. The program assesses individual singers' ability to match specific tones and melodies, providing a tool for early music education programs and researchers studying musical ability.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalMusic Perception An Interdisciplinary Journal·DateNov 10, 2014

Noise pollution impacts fish species differently

A new study found that different fish species respond uniquely to noise pollution, with three-spined sticklebacks reacting faster to sound when a predator is present. This discovery highlights the need for targeted management of noise in marine environments to mitigate its effects on aquatic ecosystems.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 24, 2014

School hearing tests do not detect noise exposure hearing loss

Researchers at Penn State College of Medicine found that school hearing tests cannot effectively detect noise exposure-induced high-frequency hearing loss in adolescents. The tests primarily focus on low-frequency hearing loss and may not accurately identify hearing issues caused by prolonged exposure to loud noises.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Medical Screening·DateMar 20, 2014

Automated test construction can better assess student mastery of common core state standards

A new algorithm for automated test construction has been developed to improve the alignment and validity of assessments for the Common Core State Standards. The study found that this approach can provide more accurate measures of student mastery, which is essential for effective instructional time use by school leaders. Additionally, t...

SourceAmerican Educational Research Association·JournalEducational Researcher·DateNov 13, 2013

Not all brand-consumer relationships are created equal, says University of Toronto study

A University of Toronto study found that the type of relationship consumers form with brands influences their assessment of fairness. In exchange relationships, respectful treatment is more crucial in fair outcomes, while in communal relationships, it has less effect. Marketers must understand these dynamics to correct unfair outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Toronto, Rotman School of Management·JournalJournal of Consumer Psychology·DateJul 10, 2012

Visual test effective in diagnosing concussions in collegiate athletes

A new visual test effectively diagnosed concussions in collegiate athletes, detecting impaired eye movements and rapid eye movements. The King-Devick test, a previously used dyslexia test, was validated as a reliable tool to aid medical professionals and trainers in determining which athletes need to come out of games.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the Neurological Sciences·DateAug 31, 2011

Listening to music is biological

Researchers studied 437 family members aged 8-93, finding a strong link between active music listening, creativity, and genetic variations associated with AVPR1A gene. The study provides molecular evidence of sound's role in social communication and attachment behavior.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalJournal of Human Genetics·DateFeb 25, 2011