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Risky business: Consumer risk influenced by level of enjoyment in sequential activities

Researchers from Yale University found that consumers tend to take risks with subsequent decisions when things are going well. Conversely, they opt for reliable options when the evening is off to a bad start. The study suggests that this pattern of choices applies to various goals including enjoyment and health.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateNov 14, 2005

Research: In environmental policy, we get what we pay for

A new study by University of Michigan researchers finds that market-based incentives, such as pollution taxes and emissions permits, can reduce pollution abatement costs for businesses. However, these approaches may not be effective in areas with localized pollution where the source of pollution matters.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalEnvironment and Natural Resources Journal·DateNov 9, 2005

'Know thyself' — easier said than done

A recent study found that people generally overestimate their abilities and health risks, leading to poor decision-making in areas such as health management, education, and the workplace. This can have serious consequences, including underestimating susceptibility to health risks and overconfidence in professional competence.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science in the Public Interest·DateOct 28, 2005

UK needs more seafarers

A study by Cardiff University predicts a current annual shortfall of UK ex-seafarers as much as 112. This shortage could lead to higher wage bills for shipping companies, reduced quality of employment, and less incentive to train cadets. The shipping industry has traditionally supplied skilled labor to shore-based industries.

Hello, will you be my friend?

The nTag device uses infrared links and RFID chips to connect people with common interests, alerting them to potential matches. Despite some initial issues, most delegates were impressed with the service, exchanging over 3,600 business cards during the event.

Critics are wrong: Suburban residents feel a strong sense of community

A recent study published in the Journal of Planning Education and Research found that suburban residents felt a close sense of community with their neighbors. Despite criticisms that suburbs are cold and sterile, the study refuted these claims by showing that both traditional and suburban neighborhoods can foster strong community bonds.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Planning Education and Research·DateOct 13, 2003

Data will not go to waste

Researchers at Cardiff University are launching a survey to gather detailed data on commercial and industrial waste arisings in Wales. The survey will question 2,400 businesses across the country, providing valuable insights into waste generation and management practices.

University of Toronto researcher examines effects of power

A recent study by Jennifer Berdahl and Cameron Anderson found that supervisors with more power can influence team decisions more than their subordinates. The researchers discovered that this can lead to subordinates underestimating their supervisors' approval and overestimating their anger, resulting in poorer decision-making.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateNov 11, 2002