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Emoticons may signal better customer service ;)

A study found that customers rate customer service agents higher when they use emoticons in their responses, indicating a sense of emotional connection. Agents who respond quickly also receive positive ratings, as this creates a feeling of social presence.

SourcePenn State·JournalComputers in Human Behavior·DateMay 21, 2015

System model for calculating mine profitability

The new system dynamic model supports investment decision-making and optimizes production guidance in mining investments. The model has already sparked interest among international mining companies.

SourceLappeenranta University of Technology·DateMay 6, 2015

NREL report estimates market potential of shared solar

A NREL report finds that shared solar programs can expand access to renewable energy, reaching 32-49% of the US distributed photovoltaic market in 2020. The program's structure and regulation impact its potential for deployment.

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·DateMay 5, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

How limiting CEO pay can be more effective, less costly

Research by UC Berkeley economists finds that limiting CEO stock-based compensation benefits shareholders, while executives may be incentivized through trust-based contracts. The study suggests that government regulation can make executive pay less costly and more effective.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley Haas School of Business·JournalReview of Financial Studies·DateApr 15, 2015
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.

Cultivating timeflow: Can consumers shape how they experience time?

A new study identifies five essential elements that determine how consumers experience time: technology, skill, plans and moods, rules and regulations, and cultural understanding. When these elements are out of alignment, time seems to rush or drag, affecting consumer experiences in various activities.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateMar 31, 2015
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

How are ordinary consumers transforming the fashion business?

Consumers are curating looks and creating images on outfit sharing websites, fueling popular fashion bloggers and a new logic of accessibility. This shift has changed market-level changes in institutional work, categories of actors, and underlying logics.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateMar 31, 2015

A matter of taste: When do products benefit from mixed reviews?

A mix of positive and negative reviews can be beneficial for products judged on personal taste, but detrimental when quality is the primary consideration. The authors investigated how consumers respond to diverse online reviews and found that varied ratings due to individual tastes are more acceptable in some cases.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateMar 31, 2015

Study provides academic support for new Steve Jobs portrayal

A recent study from Brigham Young University finds that leaders with a mix of narcissism and humility are more effective and engage their employees better. The research, which was published in the Journal of Applied Psychology, suggests that when leaders balance their self-confidence with humility, they can avoid the negative traits as...

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalJournal of Applied Psychology·DateMar 24, 2015
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.

Location, location, location: Bike-sharing systems need revamp to attract more riders

A new study by University of Chicago Booth School of Business researchers found that redesigning bike networks can increase ridership by up to 29.4% and reduce the distance commuters need to walk to reach stations. By taking commuter preferences into account, cities can optimize their bike-share systems to attract more users.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Booth School of Business·JournalManagement Science·DateMar 18, 2015

Winter months SAD for US Treasury securities, study reveals

Research finds that US Treasury securities show a significant swing in returns between October and April due to seasonal depression. The average monthly return difference is 80 basis points, indicating a substantial impact of SAD on investment decisions.

SourceUniversity of Toronto, Rotman School of Management·JournalCritical Finance Review·DateMar 16, 2015

Study reveals sexual appeal of war heroes

A study published in Evolution and Human Behaviour found that women are more attracted to war heroes than regular soldiers or men who display heroic traits in other fields. The researchers also discovered that heroism in combat increases women's levels of sexual attraction towards male soldiers, but not in disaster zones.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalEvolution and Human Behavior·DateMar 11, 2015

Calling your bluff: Supervisors easily sniff out what drives a worker

A study suggests that supervisors can distinguish between selfless and self-servingly motivated employees based on their organizational citizenship behavior. Selfless employees are more likely to contribute positively to the organization, while self-servingly motivated employees focus on personal advancement.

SourceSpringer Science+Business Media·JournalJournal of Business and Psychology·DateMar 5, 2015
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.

Chance as a motivator? Uncertainty can make people work harder

A study by Luxi Shen and colleagues found that uncertainty motivates people to put in more effort to obtain uncertain rewards. In experiments, consumers completed tasks for lower potential rewards when the outcome was uncertain, highlighting the motivating-uncertainty effect.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateMar 4, 2015

Real estate bidding wars aren't going away

A new study from the University of Toronto's Rotman School of Management found that homes sold through bidding wars have increased their market share over the last two decades. Bidding war sales rates were correlated with economic and housing booms, but not consistently across jurisdictions.

SourceUniversity of Toronto, Rotman School of Management·JournalReal Estate Economics·DateMar 3, 2015

UT Arlington study shows employees become angry when receiving after-hours email, texts

A new UT Arlington study finds that employees who receive electronic correspondence from work after hours become angry more often than not, interfering with their personal lives. The researchers identified two categories of workers: segmentors who separate work and personal life, and integrators who want to stay connected with work.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalAcademy of Management Journal·DateFeb 27, 2015

When it comes to an opening number, sometimes the best bargaining move is to offer two

A new study from Columbia Business School suggests that using range offers in negotiations can lead to better settlements for the offer-maker without harming their relationship with the other party. Bolstering and bracketing range offers were found to be effective strategies, while backdown range offers were less successful.

SourceColumbia Business School·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateFeb 17, 2015

Novel method projects growth potential of new firms

A study by MIT researchers projects the growth potential of high-tech firms with new precision, identifying key characteristics and locations with higher growth prospects. The study found that firms with certain features, such as formal registration and capital investment, are more likely to grow.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateFeb 5, 2015
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Cooperation, considered

A new model developed by Harvard researchers explains how motives impact cooperation and why people trust genuine altruists over those who open envelopes. The 'envelope game' helps capture the notion that people value principle-driven behavior, especially in situations where cooperation comes with a cost.

SourceHarvard University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 5, 2015

Interconnected IT for business models in rural areas

The Fraunhofer Institute is developing a platform to interconnect various IT systems in rural areas, enabling secure real-time communication and optimizing transportation systems. This technology will be presented at CeBIT, allowing people to test business models for rural areas with a real-life simulation.

SourceFraunhofer-Gesellschaft·DateFeb 2, 2015

How creative are you? Depends where you're from

A Concordia University study found that individuals from collectivist societies generate fewer ideas but with higher quality, while those from individualistic countries produce more ideas but with lower quality. The study suggests that understanding cultural differences is crucial for maximizing productivity in international teams.

SourceConcordia University·JournalJournal of Business Research·DateJan 27, 2015
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.

Job seekers with 'learning' attitude have more success

A study by University of Missouri and Lehigh University researchers discovered that job seekers with learning goal orientation are more successful in achieving career goals. Individuals with this disposition tend to react to failures by intensifying their search process, while those with low LGO decrease intensity. The study suggests t...

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalOrganizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes·DateJan 21, 2015

New research reveals the power of hierarchy in high-pressure situations

A strong hierarchy can increase both summit and fatality rates in the Himalayas, yet it helps groups achieve best outcomes by offering coordination and organization. The key to finding the right balance lies in identifying barriers that prevent lower-ranking members from voicing their perspective.

SourceColumbia Business School·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 20, 2015

Debunking aging myths in financial decisions

A new study from Columbia Business School found that 'crystallized intelligence,' gained through experience and accumulated knowledge, is more important than 'fluid intelligence' in making sound financial decisions. The research suggests guidelines for policymakers to help older adults with complex financial decisions.

SourceColumbia Business School·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 14, 2015

Not always cool to stay cool in negotiations, study finds

A recent study found that trying to suppress anger about crucial negotiation topics can lead negotiators to lose focus. In contrast, bottling up emotions related to incidental matters does not negatively impact performance.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of Business and Psychology·DateJan 13, 2015
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.

Best job performance comes from match between first and later work experiences

Research by András Tilcsik at the University of Toronto's Rotman School of Management shows that employees who experience similar economic environments in their early and later work lives perform better. Companies can help avoid 'curse of extremes' by diversifying new employees' experiences.

SourceUniversity of Toronto, Rotman School of Management·JournalAdministrative Science Quarterly·DateJan 8, 2015

UT Arlington study researches AT&T Stadium's impact on nearby businesses

A UT Arlington study found that businesses near the stadium experience success when they synchronize their activities with events. Businesses closer to the stadium saw as a negative became paralyzed, but adapting to time-adaptation strategies helped them thrive.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalJournal of Management Studies·DateJan 5, 2015

Disadvantaged men more likely to do 'women's work' reveals new study

A new study reveals that men from disadvantaged groups are disproportionately represented in low-paid, part-time jobs traditionally associated with women. The research found that disabled men are three times more likely to have a disability and be in the lowest income bracket than women.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalSex Roles·DateDec 22, 2014

Scientists closing in on an new type of vaccine

A Danish research team has gained a new understanding of the diarrhea-causing bacteria, ETEC, and is exploring its potential for developing an entirely new class of vaccines. The research aims to create a vaccine that can activate the immune system to recognize the agent as foreign and destroy it.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark·DateDec 11, 2014
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Social networking during a campus emergency

Researchers argue that social networking sites can be used to provide timely updates and guidance during emergency situations on campus. The study suggests that these platforms could complement existing emergency notification systems, providing a cost-effective way to reach students and staff.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Business Information Systems·DateDec 5, 2014

E-signatures less trusted than handwritten signatures

A new study finds that people are more likely to distrust e-signatures than hand-signed documents, with those having fewer personal characteristics perceived as less valid. This lag between technological advancement and psychological reaction highlights the need for caution in adoption.

SourceSAGE·JournalSocial Psychological and Personality Science·DateDec 2, 2014

New survey of employers about the health insurance market

A new survey by NORC at the University of Chicago reveals that nine in ten employers offering insurance are unfamiliar with objective quality metrics, despite valuing plan quality ratings. Employers cite cost to employees as a key consideration when selecting health plans.

SourceNORC at the University of Chicago·DateNov 20, 2014
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.

Do financial experts make better investments?

Research by Michigan State University scholars found that financial experts fail to consistently beat non-professional investors, suggesting average investors might handle their own portfolios for better results.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Financial Intermediation·DateOct 28, 2014

The unexpected benefits of adjustable rate mortgages

Researchers found that reduced mortgage payments of $150 a month led to decreased mortgage defaults, increased consumer spending on automobile purchases, and improved household credit ratings. Additionally, households applied most of the saved mortgage money towards reducing outstanding credit card debts.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Booth School of Business·JournalSocial Science Research·DateOct 22, 2014

Forced to be bad: When eating that chocolate cake is 'not our fault'?

A new study in Journal of Consumer Research found that consumers experience less guilt and higher vitality when they're not responsible for indulging in luxury products. The research suggests that allowing consumers to deflect their spending decisions can lead to increased happiness and well-being.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateOct 14, 2014

Brand loyalty: What happens when our favorite products are unavailable?

When favorite products are out of stock, consumers quickly forget about them if a good replacement is available, according to a new study. The study found that desire for a product depends on the time elapsed since consumption and substitute availability.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateOct 14, 2014

The Costco effect: Do consumers buy less variety at bigger stores?

A new study found that consumers purchase a greater variety of products when they are packaged individually rather than bundled together. Consumers tend to seek more options when choosing from single products, regardless of their preference. The study offers insight for retailers on how to influence consumer behavior and increase sales.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateOct 14, 2014
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.

Uncertain reward more motivating than sure thing, study finds

A recent study published in the Journal of Consumer Research found that uncertainty can be a motivating factor for individuals. Researchers discovered that people are more likely to invest time and effort into pursuing an uncertain reward, rather than a certain one. This phenomenon is attributed to the positive experience of making the...

SourceUniversity of Chicago Booth School of Business·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateOct 13, 2014

How career dreams are born

A new study at Ohio State University reveals that people with low self-confidence need a vivid picture of their future success to pursue their career goals. The researchers found that students who were given detailed information about the benefits of becoming a business psychologist were more likely to apply for the program and showed ...

SourceOhio State University·JournalBasic and Applied Social Psychology·DateSep 29, 2014
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.

Benefits of telecommuting greater for some workers, study finds

A new study by University of Illinois professor Ravi S. Gajendran found that telecommuting yields positive effects on task- and context-based performance for employees with good relationships with their bosses. However, for workers without a strong employer relationship, telecommuting actually improves performance.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalPersonnel Psychology·DateSep 18, 2014

Artworks are people!

A new study suggests that artworks are perceived as an extension of the creator, with original pieces valued more highly than copies. The researchers propose a concept called 'magical contagion,' where the artist's physical presence imbues the work with their essence.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Booth School of Business·JournalTopics in Cognitive Science·DateSep 16, 2014
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.

New research shows that there could be increased numbers of psychopaths in senior managerial positions and high levels of business

Researchers found that individuals with psychopathic tendencies and high intelligence can mask their symptoms by manipulating tests designed to reveal their personalities. This raises concerns about the potential presence of ruthless risk-takers in key business posts.

SourceUniversity of Huddersfield·JournalJournal of Forensic Psychiatry and Psychology·DateSep 8, 2014
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.

Outsourcing parenthood? It takes a village AND the marketplace to raise a child

According to a new study, parents are willing to turn to the marketplace for help once they have provided a strong baseline of activities that allow them to direct care and protect their connections. Achieving this balance helps parents maintain feelings of responsibility, control, and intimacy.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateAug 26, 2014

Abusive leadership infects entire team

A new study found that abusive supervisors can infect entire teams with conflict, hurting productivity. Researchers discovered that individual employees who experience abuse also cause their teammates to become hostile and mistreat one another.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Applied Psychology·DateAug 20, 2014
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.