Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Cryptocurrencies – a return to money being a commodity?

The cryptocurrency market is maturing, with cryptocurrencies showing correlations with traditional markets, including the US stock market and commodity markets. This suggests that the market is becoming more like a commodity market, similar to gold or silver.

SourceThe Henryk Niewodniczanski Institute of Nuclear Physics Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalEntropy·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 27, 2022

New framework accounts for how moral character promotes ethical decision making

A new framework, known as the Character Lens perspective, has been developed to account for patterns in individuals' understanding of and approach to ethical choices. This framework acknowledges the significant role of moral character in influencing how people perceive the world and make decisions.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalJournal of Business Ethics·DateJan 25, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Employee training pays off with fewer layoffs

Investments in employee training decrease reliance on layoffs during pandemic-induced financial pressures. Banks with higher levels of training made more cuts to expenses in other areas, reducing workforce reductions. Employee training offers stronger job protection when paired with investments in physical capital and technologies.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of Applied Psychology·DateJan 6, 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.

Not everybody hates looking at themselves on Zoom

A Washington State University study found that people's attitudes toward virtual meetings depend on their public self-consciousness. Those low in this trait tend to have more positive attitudes when their own faces are visible, while highly self-conscious individuals experience worse attitudes.

SourceWashington State University·JournalComputers in Human Behavior·TypeSurvey·DateJan 3, 2022

If you need help at work, ditch email, text and ask in person

A recent study by Cornell University researchers found that asking in person for help yields the highest response rate of a yes, surpassing video calls and emails. To achieve this optimal outcome, it's recommended to ditch email, text, and opt for video or phone calls instead.

SourceCornell University·JournalSocial Psychological and Personality Science·DateDec 20, 2021

Voluntary pledges could cut utility GHG emissions by a third

A study analyzing major US electric utility pledges suggests that if implemented, these reductions could lower power sector emissions by 30% by 2050. However, about one-seventh of the pledged cuts are redundant and would be required under existing state regulations.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalOne Earth·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 17, 2021
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.

UNH research amidst COVID-19 finds leadership style may impact crisis outcomes

Researchers found that global leaders with a rational, problem-solving approach had fewer country-wide infections, while charismatic leaders were associated with higher infection rates. The study suggests that leadership style can significantly impact public health outcomes during crises.

SourceUniversity of New Hampshire·JournalPersonality and Individual Differences·DateDec 16, 2021

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

Live-streaming ads for alcohol, junk food increased during pandemic

A Penn State study found that live-streaming ads for alcohol, energy drinks, and junk food significantly increased during the pandemic, targeting young viewers. The researchers discovered that energy drinks made up nearly 80% of marketing, while ads for restaurants and soda were also prevalent.

SourcePenn State·JournalPublic Health Nutrition·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 13, 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.

Did the Lockdown Lead to More or Fewer Non-COVID Deaths?

Research finds lockdowns led to significant reductions in non-COVID mortality, with a decrease of 12.5% after loosening measures, resulting in the prevention of 293,000 deaths. Improved air quality and increased sanitizing surfaces also contributed to fewer deaths from infectious diseases.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateDec 10, 2021

Modern slavery still not a priority for one in five Australian businesses

New research from UniSA finds that confusion, lack of knowledge and disinterest are hindering businesses' progress in addressing modern slavery. The study provides a framework to help companies improve their approaches, but warns that without effective measures, global efforts to stop modern slavery will be unlikely to succeed.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalThe British Accounting Review·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 9, 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.

Toys prove to be better investment than gold, art, and financial securities

A study by HSE University economists found that LEGO sets have a significant price growth rate on the secondary market, outperforming traditional investments. The authors analyzed 2,322 sets from 1987 to 2015 and discovered prices of rare sets can increase by up to +600% annually.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalResearch in International Business and Finance·DateDec 3, 2021

Using machine learning and natural language processing to measure consumer reviews for product attribute insights

Researchers develop a methodological framework to extract and monitor information from consumer reviews, providing actionable insights on product attributes and their benefits. The study also extends sentiment analysis by demonstrating hierarchical sentiment analysis, enabling managers to generate tailored dashboards and inform decisions.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateNov 23, 2021
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.

Praise that slays: How complimenting a competitor can drive a firm's revenues

A recent study published in the Journal of Marketing found that brand-to-brand praise can lead to increased consumer engagement and sales for the praiser. The research suggests that this approach is particularly effective for brands that are not traditionally seen as warm or caring, such as for-profit brands.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateNov 18, 2021

Staff wellbeing programmes help social relationships and reduce bullying

A new study found that employee engagement with health and wellbeing programmes is associated with better co-worker relationships, reduced bullying, and improved job satisfaction. The research suggests that even senior managers' commitment to these initiatives has a positive impact on employees' social relationships.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalBritish Journal of Management·DateNov 18, 2021

Why product brands should build their own platforms

The study identifies two central processes shaping brand flagship platforms: consumer crowdsourcing and crowdsending. Brands can tailor the degree of consumer involvement, leading to four different states of consumer-platform relationships. The platformization of brands requires fundamental changes to established notions.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateNov 11, 2021

The gatekeepers of German business: How companies attain coveted key positions

A study by Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg reveals that mid-sized collaborations are crucial for companies to become gatekeepers in Germany's business network. These collaborations lead to improved innovation and profits. Large companies dominate the gatekeeper position, but smaller collaborations can also be beneficial.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalEuropean Management Journal·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 10, 2021

'Tuition myopia' may negatively impact students' financial future, study finds

A recent study by Indiana University Kelley School of Business reveals that students who choose low-cost, low-return colleges are more likely to default on their student loans and experience a higher chance of bankruptcy after graduation. In contrast, high-cost, high-return colleges result in lower lifetime income but also fewer defaults.

SourceIndiana University·JournalJournal of Marketing Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 10, 2021
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.

People may prefer climate change policies that give incentives, find energy alternatives

Participants preferred policies that used incentives to encourage eco-friendly choices, particularly when they targeted businesses. In contrast, policies that focused on energy alternatives and used incentives were also supported. The researchers found that policy support was influenced by the type of change targeted, who was targeted,...

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Environmental Psychology·TypeObservational study·DateOct 27, 2021
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.

Stimulus designed to help restaurant workers led to more COVID cases

A new study found that a UK government subsidy aimed at boosting restaurant sales during the pandemic accelerated a second wave of COVID-19 infections. The 'Eat-Out-To-Help-Out' scheme subsidized meals by up to 50% and saw a significant increase in restaurant visits, particularly on weekdays.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalThe Economic Journal·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 26, 2021

Structured management protocols help firms thrive

Using data from over 353 million unique observations, researchers found that companies with structured management practices attracted top-flight managers and were able to keep talented workers. This suggests that better-managed firms are growing in terms of employment, and that these firms can influence the entire labor market.

SourceCornell University·JournalManagement Science·DateOct 25, 2021

Study offers snapshot of celebs’ social media influence on COVID-19 info

A study published in the Atlantic Journal of Communication analyzed Instagram posts from 20 celebrity influencers about COVID-19 between March and May 2020. The researchers found that celebrities initially modeled guidance from health experts, normalizing suggested behaviors such as staying home and practicing hand hygiene.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalAtlantic Journal of Communication·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 21, 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.

Food safety crises at smaller restaurant chains can hurt giants

A recent study found that food safety crises at smaller restaurant chains have a significant impact on consumer behavior, causing people to be hesitant to visit other restaurants even if they were not directly involved. The negative spillover effect was greater from the bottom up, with small chain crises hurting big-name brands more.

SourceWashington State University·JournalInternational Journal of Hospitality Management·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 19, 2021

New study uncovers why there is so little competition in government procurement

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University found that agencies can extract more rent from a winning bidder when negotiating contract terms, reducing the benefits of drawing additional bidders. The study suggests allowing agencies some discretion to use their knowledge of the supply side can reduce procurement costs.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalThe Review of Economic Studies·DateOct 15, 2021

How your firm's Tweets affect its value—both temporarily and permanently

Researchers found that tweets with negative valence and consumer orientation generate permanent price impacts, while those with positive valence and competitor orientation increase temporary price impacts. Firms can design social media content to improve firm value by incorporating attributes such as valence and subject matter.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateOct 14, 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.

Women indirectly hurt more by noncompete pacts

A Cornell University study finds that noncompete agreements disproportionately affect women entrepreneurs, blocking them from starting high-growth companies. The 'fear factor' associated with noncompetes also limits the ability of women to hire experienced employees, making entrepreneurial ventures riskier.

SourceCornell University·JournalOrganization Science·DateOct 12, 2021

Fintech can promote financial inclusion in emerging economies

A new study from the University of Illinois evaluates fintech systems in 16 emerging markets, finding that digital technologies improve access to financial services. However, vulnerable populations face barriers to usage due to digital literacy, cost, and limited consumer protections.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalEmerging Markets Review·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 12, 2021
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.

Workload determines how co-workers treat sick colleagues

A UCF study examines the link between 'coworker presenteeism' and mistreatment, finding that heavy workloads lead to self-interest and avoidance of sick colleagues. Managers are advised to encourage employees to stay home to recover quickly and protect their health.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalJournal of Applied Psychology·TypeSurvey·DateOct 11, 2021

The impact of corporate social responsibility on brand sales

A new study examines the effect of corporate social responsibility on consumers' actual purchase behavior, finding that corrective and compensating CSR actions boost sales, while cultivating CSR initiatives lead to slight drops. The study also reveals that sincere motives play a crucial role in consumer perception of CSR.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateOct 7, 2021

#Nomakeup trend fails to discourage use of cosmetics

New research from University of Georgia suggests that the no-makeup movement isn't liberating women from cosmetics. Instead, cosmetic sales have increased alongside the rise of the no-makeup trend. The study found that people perceive 'natural' looks with makeup as more attractive than those without.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalJournal of the Academy of Marketing Science·DateOct 5, 2021

Brands can boost their own reputations and sales by praising rivals

A study published in the Journal of Marketing found that complimenting a competitor can increase a brand's reputation and sales, particularly among skeptical consumers. The tactic is most effective when done strategically and authentically, signaling a brand's warmth and trustworthiness.

SourceDuke University·JournalJournal of Marketing·TypeObservational study·DateSep 30, 2021
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Reduce email stress by sending clear messages, setting response expectations

A new study from Cornell University's ILR School found that people overestimate how quickly senders expect responses to non-urgent work emails, leading to increased stress. By clearly defining response expectations, senders can alleviate this 'email urgency bias' and create a more manageable inbox.

SourceCornell University·JournalOrganizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes·DateSep 27, 2021

Artificial intelligence skills bootcamp at the University of Huddersfield

The University of Huddersfield's AI Skills Bootcamp will provide learners with personalized learning and employment plans, alongside Artificial Intelligence and transferable skills. The 16-week program aims to support learners from across the UK in developing independent skills and addressing current barriers to digital skills employment.

SourceUniversity of Huddersfield·TypeNews article·DateSep 20, 2021

Firm-level payroll tax cuts may alleviate unemployment during economic downturns

A study by Youssef Benzarti and Jarkko Harju found that regional payroll tax cuts in Finland reduced negative effects of the Great Recession on employment, particularly among men and low-skilled employees. The cuts also relaxed liquidity constraints for firms, making them more resilient during downturns.

SourceVATT Institute for Economic Research·JournalJournal of Public Economics·DateSep 20, 2021

Study: Ignoring black peers leads whites to poor decisions

A study by University of Texas at Dallas researcher Dr. Sheen S. Levine found that white Americans are prone to making poor decisions when they ignore their Black peers. When given the opportunity to witness Black peers' accomplishments, however, the racial attention deficit subsides, suggesting a remedy for diversity efforts.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 17, 2021
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Study: As a population gets older, automation accelerates

Researchers found that aging workforces, characterized by a higher ratio of workers 56 and older to those ages 21-55, are associated with increased robot deployment in 60 countries. This study suggests that automation adoption is partly driven by labor shortages, particularly middle-aged labor needed for blue-collar work.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalThe Review of Economic Studies·DateSep 16, 2021

Why salespeople avoid big-whale sales opportunities

Research reveals that salespeople conduct rational benefit–cost analyses when deciding which opportunity to pursue. They also use a calibration decision-making strategy for solution selling, which can lead to serious under- or overestimation of conversion rates. The findings highlight the importance of managing salespeople's avoidance ...

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateSep 16, 2021

Culture determines the likelihood of unhappy employees becoming entrepreneurs

A new study by Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University found that cultural context greatly affects the likelihood of unhappy employees becoming entrepreneurs. Countries with low uncertainty avoidance and high social acceptance of entrepreneurship have a stronger link between job satisfaction and entrepreneurial intent. In contrast, countri...

SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalInternational Small Business Journal Researching Entrepreneurship·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 9, 2021

When everyone works remotely, communication and collaboration suffer, study finds

A new study of 61,000 Microsoft employees found that working from home causes workers to become more siloed in how they communicate, engage in fewer real-time conversations, and spend fewer hours in meetings. The study's findings suggest that a full-time remote workforce may have a harder time acquiring and sharing new information.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley Haas School of Business·JournalNature Human Behaviour·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 9, 2021

Giving websites a human touch: Researcher of Mainz University receives SERVSIG Best Service Article Award of the American Marketing Association

A study by researchers at Mainz University found that digital presence of service employees improves customer loyalty. The study, published in the Journal of Marketing Research, showed that customers perceive websites with images or videos of service employees as more attractive and memorable, leading to increased customer loyalty.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·DateSep 9, 2021
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.

Eliminating cash could benefit average U.S. families

A new study from the University of Georgia suggests that eliminating physical currency could benefit average Americans as long as certain taxes are lowered too. The research finds that reducing cash transactions would lead to lower tax evasion, allowing governments to reduce other taxes and boost overall well-being.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalEuropean Economic Review·DateSep 7, 2021

Apologizing to customers after product failures can encourage repurchase, stave off lawsuits

A study by Binghamton University found that companies that express remorse in the wake of a product failure are more likely to encourage customers to repurchase from them. The researchers also discovered that remorseful statements can help stave off retaliatory actions such as lawsuits by framing messages that match consumers' natural ...

SourceBinghamton University·JournalJournal of Consumer Marketing·DateSep 7, 2021

Persistent pinging and push-notifications: Study uncovers pros/cons of constant connectivity in the workplace

A Simon Fraser University study reveals that workers who use mobile technology to actively connect with colleagues experience higher levels of communication effectiveness and better work performance. However, these same technologies can also impair performance due to interruptions. The study highlights the importance of finding a balan...

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalJournal of Vocational Behavior·TypeSurvey·DateSep 3, 2021

Improving buyer-freelancer communications in the gig economy

Researchers provide generalized communication principles for successful bid writing in the gig economy, including moderate call length, task information focus, and concreteness. By managing uncertainty through bids, freelancers can increase their chances of winning gigs and achieving price premiums.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateSep 2, 2021
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.