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Smokers may have a tougher time finding a job, earn less money

A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that unemployed smokers were less likely to get new jobs and earned an average of $5 less per hour than nonsmokers. This results in a significant wage deficit, with smokers facing a loss of over $8,300 annually.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateApr 11, 2016

Spending that fits personality can boost well-being

A new study examines nearly 77,000 UK bank spending transactions and reveals that individuals who spend more money on products matching their personality traits report greater life satisfaction. This effect is stronger than the relationship between total income or total spending and life satisfaction.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateApr 7, 2016
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.

What's holding black entrepreneurs back?

African-Americans face significant obstacles to entrepreneurship due to centuries-old racial disadvantages, including limited access to resources and financial services. The majority of black-owned businesses are smaller, have fewer employees, and generate less revenue compared to their white counterparts.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalEthnic and Racial Studies·DateMar 31, 2016

National hospital hand-washing campaign effective but expensive

The National Hand Hygiene Initiative in Australian hospitals successfully reduced risks of deadly infections, saving at least 96 years of life annually. However, the program was found to be expensive, with costs ranging from $8,988 to $29,700 per life year gained.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 18, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

High corporate taxes incentivize corporate debt

Multinational companies with high corporate taxes take on less debt than those with lower tax rates, according to a new study. The research suggests that higher corporate taxes distort economic activity and lead to reduced debt levels, contrary to previous findings.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalJournal of Financial Economics·DateJan 27, 2016
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.

Valuing your time more than money is linked to happiness

New research published by the Society for Personality and Social Psychology found an almost even split between people who value their time or money, with prioritizing time associated with greater happiness. The study, which included over 4,600 participants, also found that older people were more likely to prioritize their time.

SourceSociety for Personality and Social Psychology·JournalSocial Psychological and Personality Science·DateJan 7, 2016

Breaking bread with colleagues boosts productivity

A recent study by Cornell University found that firefighter platoons who eat meals together have better group job performance compared to those who dine solo. This phenomenon is attributed to the social bonding and intimacy that comes with sharing meals, which spills over into improved work performance.

SourceCornell University·JournalHuman Performance·DateDec 7, 2015
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.

Decline in cognitive ability leads to fear of upfront costs

Research reveals that older individuals with lower cognitive abilities are more likely to be deterred by upfront costs when considering retirement savings products like annuities. This leads to a decrease in demand for these products and may impact the financial security of Baby Boomers as they age.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalApplied Economics·DateDec 1, 2015

Who's the 'enviest' of them all?

A recent study by UC San Diego researchers found that young adults experience envy more frequently than older adults, particularly in regards to physical appearance and academic success. The study also revealed that men and women tend to envy someone of the same age group, with younger participants reporting envy over looks and romance.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalBasic and Applied Social Psychology·DateNov 4, 2015

Buying a new furnace: Will you use your savings or assume more debt?

A study by Abigail B. Sussman and Rourke L. O'Brien found that earmarking savings for 'responsible' purposes can lead to preserving those funds even at high interest rates. Participants were more likely to borrow money to meet emergency expenses if maintaining their savings was important to their sense of responsibility.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing Research·DateNov 2, 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.

If you made money buying a first home in 2000s, you probably weren't black

A Johns Hopkins University study found that race was a significant factor in whether low- and moderate-income black first-time homebuyers made money when buying a home in the 2000s. The researchers analyzed data from the Panel Study of Income Dynamics, which revealed stark disparities by race.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalReal Estate Economics·DateOct 7, 2015

Researchers' model helps predict consumer spending

Researchers developed a new methodology to predict consumer spending at competitors, using share-of-wallet as a key metric. The model reveals segments of customers, including those influenced by income and habit, allowing businesses to target high-potential customers and optimize cross-selling strategies.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalInternational Journal of Research in Marketing·DateSep 25, 2015

When Fed locks up funds, small businesses suffer

New research from Binghamton University reveals that federal accounting rules can lock up funds for small banks, particularly hurting their customers. This limits access to lending resources, such as commercial paper and exotics, for small businesses with greater growth potential.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalThe Accounting Review·DateSep 17, 2015
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Researchers find that lure of winning prizes encourages saving

A study published in the Journal of Public Economics found that Prize Linked Savings (PLS) products, which combine savings with the possibility of winning large cash prizes, are more effective at inducing savings than standard interest-bearing accounts. This is particularly true for lower-income and less-educated individuals who are al...

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalJournal of Public Economics·DateSep 8, 2015

New research shows remembering self-control failures leads to repeat failures

A new study published in the Journal of Consumer Psychology reveals that remembering self-control failures can actually lead to repeated failure, rather than improved decision-making. The research found that recalling past successes is more effective in improving self-control, while recalling failures has a negative impact.

SourceBoston College·JournalJournal of Consumer Psychology·DateAug 4, 2015
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.

Study uncovers communication strategies couples can use to address financial uncertainty

Research from North Carolina State University reveals that couples can manage financial uncertainty by seeking information, communicating effectively with their partner, and adapting to the situation. The study identifies four barriers to successful management: information barriers, communication barriers, time management barriers, and...

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Applied Communication Research·DateAug 3, 2015

Research shows how to reduce the cost of modern investment strategies

A study published in the Financial Review shows that frequent portfolio rebalancing can significantly reduce trading costs, leading to higher risk-adjusted returns. Investors can apply these strategies to existing portfolios with ease, reducing costs by up to 90% and improving investment outcomes.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalFinancial Review·DateJul 16, 2015

Prescription drug benefit doesn't save money for Medicare

Researchers from Northeastern University conclude that Medicare Part D did not save the program any money overall. Despite increased access to prescription drugs, there was no significant decrease in emergency room visits, hospital stays, or healthcare spending. The study's findings challenge the Congressional Budget Office's methodolo...

SourceNortheastern University·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJun 16, 2015

The food-waste paradox

A study from Cornell Food & Brand Lab reveals that buying too much food, preparing in abundance, and improper storage lead to significant household food waste. Implementing efficient meal planning strategies and proper food storage techniques can significantly reduce waste and save money.

SourceCornell Food & Brand Lab·JournalInternational Journal of Consumer Studies·DateJun 9, 2015

Pocket change: When does corporate gratitude backfire

A new study in the Journal of Marketing found that companies may inadvertently devalue customer relationships with small monetary gifts. The authors suggest firms consider directing such gifts to charity to avoid the 'trivialization effect',

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateJun 2, 2015
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.

Seven in 10 take early pension payout

A Michigan State University study found that 71% of Croatian retirees chose smaller, earlier pension payouts when given the option, with those who were poor or distrusted the government more likely to make this choice. The study provides crucial insight into individuals' preferences and reasoning when early payouts may be offered

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Financial Economics·DateMay 12, 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.

Customers will pay more today if there's payback later, shows equal billing study

A study of equal billing plans found that customers prefer to pay a little more each month to ensure a refund at the end of the term. This irrational attitude leads to increased customer loyalty and satisfaction. Companies can benefit from this by setting up their equal billing plans to issue refunds at the end of the term.

SourceUniversity of Toronto, Rotman School of Management·JournalInternational Journal of Research in Marketing·DateMay 6, 2015

Buyers with a trade-in get a raw deal

New research from USC Marshall School of Business shows that consumers who trade in their used cars pay an average of $990 more than those without a trade-in. Dealers infer a higher willingness to pay and charge higher prices based on the characteristics of the trade-in vehicle.

SourceUSC Marshall School of Business·JournalJournal of Industrial Economics·DateApr 30, 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.

How 'time is money' thinking can hurt the environment: UBC research

A UBC study reveals that individuals with an hourly wage mindset are less likely to undertake eco-friendly behaviors that require only a few seconds or minutes of extra effort. Researchers recommend equating environmental behavior with self-interest and adjusting billing practices to promote sustainability.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalOrganizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes·DateApr 23, 2015

What is more rewarding: A soccer goal or prize money?

A study by researchers at the University of Bonn found that brain activity in soccer players is similar when scoring a goal or winning money. Players with more egotistical personalities showed increased activity in learning and reflection regions when goals were scored after passing, not after taking the shot.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 15, 2015
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.

Lifting families out of poverty -- with dignity

A new study by Jennifer Sykes and colleagues found that the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) program bolsters recipients' self-respect by emphasizing their role as working parents and providers. The EITC has lifted approximately 7 million people out of poverty every year, about half of those children.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalAmerican Sociological Review·DateApr 1, 2015

Negotiating: Careful choice of words increases chances of success

A recent study by Leuphana University and Saarland University found that using wording that emphasizes the benefits of a proposal can lead to better outcomes. Researchers investigated this effect in eight studies involving over 650 subjects and discovered that parties who focus on their own gains are less willing to make concessions. B...

SourceLeuphana Universität Lüneburg·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateApr 1, 2015

Lack of knowledge about new foreign markets hampers international success

A study of 91 German-owned multinationals found that companies lose profit due to geographical, cultural, or administrative challenges in new international markets. Companies should gather and exchange knowledge before entering challenging markets, recommends Associate Professor Ingo Kleindienst.

SourceAarhus University·JournalJournal of International Management·DateMar 19, 2015
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.

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

Think twice about investing in own company

Researchers found that employees do not disinvest in their company's stock even when the company is failing, resulting in average losses of nearly $30 million. Employees should diversify their retirement plans to avoid significant financial losses.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateMar 4, 2015

Time management: Why we feel busier when close to reaching a goal

A recent study found that consumers tolerate interruptions less when close to completing a task or achieving a goal. This phenomenon is attributed to the psychological state of being 'close enough' to a task, making individuals impatient and more likely to decline opportunities for time-saving interventions.

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

Protections, not money, can boost internal corporate whistleblowing

New research from North Carolina State University and Bucknell University finds that strong anti-retaliation policies encourage employees to report wrongdoing internally. Protection from retaliation is key, contingent on employee trust in the company. Monetary incentives do not necessarily influence whistleblowing behavior, but can fra...

SourceNorth Carolina State University·DateMar 2, 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.

Can money buy happiness?: The relationship between money and well-being

Research highlights the benefits of experiential purchases, finding that anticipating experiences brings more happiness than waiting for material goods. In contrast, wealth and abundance may undermine appreciation for everyday moments, while temporarily giving something up can provide a route to happiness.

SourceSociety for Personality and Social Psychology·DateFeb 27, 2015

Curbing growth of physician self-referrals requires Congress

Physician self-referrals have increased market share at the expense of non-self-references for services like MRI and CT scans. The practice has allowed doctors to refer patients to clinics where they have a financial stake, raising concerns about the blending of profit and medical care.

SourceBrown University·JournalJAMA·DateJan 12, 2015
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.

Study finds Facebook popularity hampers fundraising efforts

Research by an economist at the University of Warwick found a negative correlation between Facebook connections and charitable donations. People with fewer friends on Facebook raised more money for charity than those with lots of connections. Additionally, individuals who complete tougher fundraising activities generate more cash.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalInternational Economic Review·DateDec 23, 2014

Abandoning websites: Are annoying ads good for business?

A new study found that annoying online ads can lead to a loss of advertising revenue due to user abandonment. The study also discovered that participants were less accurate in remembering content on pages with annoying advertisements.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing Research·DateDec 9, 2014

Study: Cheaper private health care prices mean more medicare spending

A new study by the University of Southern California finds that lower private health care prices lead to higher Medicare spending, with 3% increase in spending per member per year and 4.3% more specialist visits. Further research is needed to understand the cause of this shift.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalHealth Services Research·DateDec 1, 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.

Feeling -- not being -- wealthy drives opposition to wealth redistribution

New research published in Psychological Science finds that people's subjective feelings of wealth or poverty motivate their attitudes toward redistributive policies. Feeling relatively wealthy leads participants to oppose redistribution and view others as biased by self-interest. This study suggests a mechanism by which inequality may ...

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateNov 25, 2014

Most people would rather harm themselves than others for profit

A UCL-led experiment found that people are willing to inflict an average of 20p per shock on themselves and 40p per shock on strangers in exchange for money, highlighting a surprisingly optimistic view of human nature. This contradicts previous studies claiming humans prioritize their own interests over others.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 17, 2014

Longhorn beetle inspires ink to fight counterfeiting

Researchers have developed a new kind of ink that mimics the color-shifting ability of a longhorn beetle, offering a durable alternative to current methods. The ink can be fine-tuned to change color in response to environmental factors, making it difficult to copy.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Nano·DateNov 5, 2014
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.

The 'valley of death' facing physics start-ups

Despite the grueling challenge, physicists can overcome the 'valley of death' by recruiting expertise and committing to projects. Boston-based company MC10's success highlights the rewards of perseverance.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalPhysics World·DateNov 2, 2014

Don't bet on stinginess to keep stress low

Researchers found that both those receiving low offers and making low offers experienced stress, compared to those who made more generous offers. This suggests a link between emotional state and decision-making in economic situations.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 27, 2014
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

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