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Diagnosis: mismanagement

A new model developed by Michael Carter of the University of Toronto has the potential to reduce healthcare costs by $42 billion a year, while providing more services at the same cost. The model uses operations research techniques to optimize hospital operations and improve communication among departments.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·DateOct 13, 2003

Species vs. Species

The San Clemente loggerhead shrike's federal recovery program has hindered the species' co-existence with island foxes. Researchers propose shifting funds from predator control to habitat restoration to support both species. This approach may enable species co-existence, benefiting conservation efforts.

SourceSociety for Conservation Biology·JournalConservation Biology·DateSep 23, 2003

Could rice be the source for a natural herbicide?

Researchers evaluated rice varieties for their allelopathic potential, finding that certain parts of the plant can inhibit barnyardgrass growth. This study suggests the possibility of developing rice-based natural herbicides to improve weed control.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalAgronomy Journal·DateSep 5, 2003
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Adding more outside directors may worsen corporate fraud, deception

Researchers found that top managers skillfully manipulate director selection to create an image of board independence while retaining a supportive board that seldom challenges their decisions. The study suggests giving stockholders more direct representation on boards to prevent corporate fraud and deception.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalOrganizational Dynamics·DateJul 30, 2003

Physicians not 'easy marks' for drug sales reps, argues O.R. study

A study by Columbia University and the University of Washington found that pharmaceutical sales reps have modest to very small influence on prescribing behavior. In contrast, distributing drug samples plays a more positive role in contrasting medications and helping manufacturers maintain market share.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·DateJun 13, 2003

Popularizing precision agriculture

New guidelines published in Agronomy Journal provide a standardized approach to soil surveying and mapping, allowing farmers to make data-driven decisions. The technology is expected to revolutionize the agricultural industry within the next one to two decades.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalAgronomy Journal·DateJun 4, 2003

Canadian Pacific Railway's streamlined RR scheduling wins Tech World Series

Canadian Pacific Railway has developed a fixed-schedule operating plan that optimizes traffic patterns, resulting in reduced costs, improved service reliability, and increased profitability. The approach also enables better service for customers and sets a new standard for the industry.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·DateMay 6, 2003
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Organic practices slightly affect corn and soybean yields

A study found that organic production practices had a slight impact on corn and soybean yields, with reductions of up to 19% compared to conventional methods. The organic strategy also had lower production costs, but net returns were equivalent to the conventional strategy.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalAgronomy Journal·DateApr 4, 2003

Bear researchers ensure population survival, growth

Researchers at Virginia Tech have made significant contributions to understanding bear behavior, including the impact of radio-collars on survival rates and the role of dispersal distance in helping bears evade hunters. Their findings also led to the development of a morphometric-based dichotomous key for age identification.

SourceVirginia Tech·DateFeb 28, 2003
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.

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.

Affordable weapons for the war on terror

The Office of Naval Research has developed a new missile called the Affordable Weapon, designed to carry a significant payload to a target several hundred miles away. Equipped with GPS navigation and line-of-sight data links, the Affordable Weapon can fly directly to its target or loiter until directed by a forward observer.

SourceOffice of Naval Research·DateDec 10, 2002

Hospital-care specialists improve outcomes, reduce costs

A two-year study found that hospitalists reduced average patient stays by half a day, resulting in $782 per-patient cost savings. Hospitalists also achieved lower short-term mortality rates, specifically a 37% reduction in 30-day mortality.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateDec 2, 2002

Variation in gynaecological procedure suggests surgery is unnecessary

A study by Dr. David Cumming found significant variation in dilation and curretage (D&C) procedures across Alberta, with some regions experiencing a fivefold increase in rates. Less invasive therapies can accomplish the same goals as D&C, making it an unnecessary procedure for many women, according to the study's findings.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·DateNov 22, 2002
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.

Study exposes dangers of snuff for smokers wanting to quit

A study by Dr. Scott Tomar found that men using snuff were more than twice as likely to switch to cigarettes than vice versa, with 40% of former snuff users continuing or starting smoking. The study also linked snuff use to increased cancer risk and other health problems.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateOct 24, 2002
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.

Migraines cost employers millions in productivity, but interventions can help

A study by the University of Michigan found that migraine headaches affect 18% of women and 6% of men, resulting in significant lost productivity costs for employers. Employers can reduce these costs by providing education, preventive services, and direct treatment within the workplace.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalJournal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine·DateAug 8, 2002

CEO salaries are checked at companies with a powerful shareholder or threat of bankruptcy

A study by Prof. Praveen Kumar and colleagues found that a CEO's equity compensation is negatively related to the fraction of the firm held by the largest external shareholder who poses a takeover threat to managerial control. Mid-sized boards with majority stake challenge CEOs for greater equity, limiting raises.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalManagement Science·DateJun 12, 2002
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.

Dow vice president wins national award for research management

Kurt W. Swogger, Dow vice president of research and development, received the American Chemical Society's Earle B. Barnes Award for Leadership in Chemical Research Management. The award recognizes his innovative approach to developing customer-specific plastics using molecular architecture, which has led to increased efficiency and suc...

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateApr 4, 2002

Managed care linked to reduced hospital admission rates in California

Researchers found that managed care is associated with improved integration of inpatient and outpatient care, leading to lower hospitalization rates for chronic conditions. The study analyzed California trends and found a strong association between patient access ratings and reduced hospital admissions.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalMedical Care·DateMar 28, 2002

Warm and getting warmer...

An ice-free Arctic would pose enormous implications for naval operations, requiring increased cooperation between nations, particularly the US, Canada, and Russia. The region's shorter routes from Europe to Asia could lead to increased transnational activity, international crime, and environmental challenges.

SourceOffice of Naval Research·DateFeb 13, 2002
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.

In ice cream wars, less flavor is more

A new set of operations research models helps retailers identify strong and weak selling products, making targeted substitutions to increase profits. The study shows that reconfiguring a category's assortment can lead to significant improvements in profit without requiring major changes.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalManufacturing & Service Operations Management·DateFeb 13, 2002

How to unclog the Internet? Put it in reverse

Reverse computation could help network managers identify trouble spots before congestion occurs, decreasing processing time by a factor of 10 or more. The technique aims to aid in rapid design of future network systems and improve the efficiency of current techniques.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·DateJan 28, 2002

Employers who equate 'female' with 'quitter' may be surprised by latest research findings

A study of 26,359 managers found that female managers' voluntary turnover rates were slightly lower than those of male managers. Recently promoted women were also less likely to resign than recently promoted men. Managers with graduate degrees who took family leaves were no more likely to resign than non-leave-taking managers.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Applied Psychology·DateDec 23, 2001
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.

eBay auctions: 4 clues to what you'll pay

Researchers studying eBay data identified four trends that explain price fluctuations in online auctions: the weekend effect, picture effect, reputation score effect, and auction length effect. These factors impact final prices of rare coin transactions on eBay.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·DateNov 6, 2001

Good auto quality ratings motivate consumers to take better care of their cars, says O.R. study

A new study by the Institute for Operations Research and Management Sciences found that consumers are more likely to maintain their vehicles properly if they have high-quality auto ratings. The study reveals three key lessons for manufacturers, dealers, and distributors: pricing power, customer loyalty, and leasing operations.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalManagement Science·DateOct 4, 2001

Change in value of dollar dictates overseas production strategy, says O.R. study; exchange rate often overlooked

A new study by O.R. researchers found that the value of the dollar significantly impacts a company's decision on whether to export or invest in foreign production facilities. In depreciated currencies, strong exports favor the choice of ownership structure, while appreciated currencies favor investments in overseas production.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalManagement Science·DateSep 17, 2001

Negative perception of NRA, controversial organizations helps many maintain a positive identity, says O.R. study

Researchers found that individuals who separate their identity from negatively perceived organizations are more likely to maintain a positive distinctiveness and distance themselves from those stereotypes. This phenomenon, called disidentification, often leads to action against the organization.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalOrganization Science·DateAug 14, 2001
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.

Teamwork characterizes surgical teams that are faster learners of new procedures, suggests O.R. study

A recent study suggests that surgical teams with better teamwork learn new procedures significantly faster than those without. The research found that hospitals with more cumulative experience and better team communication had faster learning curves, while those with less experienced teams took longer to master new procedures.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalManagement Science·DateAug 7, 2001

Are the digits of pi random? A Berkeley Lab researcher may hold the key

A recent study suggests that math constants like pi and log(2) could be normal, meaning their digits are random in a statistical sense. The research, led by David H. Bailey, finds that certain sequences in chaotic dynamics may underlie the normality of these constants.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalExperimental Mathematics·DateJul 24, 2001

Turn up the schedule pressure, improve the quality, says O.R. study

A new study suggests that setting aggressive deadlines can eliminate shortcut-taking and improve product quality. By separating estimates of task duration from deadlines, developers are motivated to stay focused and accurate in their work.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalInformation Systems Research·DateJul 16, 2001
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.

African American teens at greater risk of tobacco addiction

Research highlights ethnoracial differences in nicotine dependence among adolescent African Americans, suggesting culturally-relevant cessation treatment. Tobacco use disproportionately affects African Americans, increasing risk of smoking-related health issues.

SourceNIH/National Institute on Drug Abuse·JournalJournal of the National Medical Association·DateJan 29, 2001

Parents and peers influence teen smoking and drinking

A study of over 4,500 teens found that affiliation with substance-using peers can significantly increase the likelihood of smoking and drinking. Parents also play a role in influencing teen behavior, particularly those who demonstrate high levels of regard and responsiveness to their children.

SourceCenter for Advancing Health·JournalHealth Education & Behavior·DateJan 22, 2001
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.

Discovery prompts call for biowarfare review

Researchers have discovered a gene that makes mousepox virus deadly to lab mice, raising concerns about its potential misuse in biowarfare. The technique could be used to strengthen biological weapons based on viruses affecting humans.

SourceCSIRO Australia·JournalJournal of Virology·DateJan 10, 2001

Periodontal disease isn't always your parents' disease

Researchers in New Zealand tracked the health of 1,000 children from birth to age 26, revealing that attachment loss, pockets, and bleeding gums are common signs of periodontal disease. The study emphasizes the need for regular dental screenings and proper oral hygiene practices to prevent chronic periodontal disease.

SourceAmerican Academy of Periodontology·JournalJournal of Periodontology·DateJan 4, 2001
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.

Something's fishy with Columbia chinook: females carry male's genetic signature

Researchers found that four-fifths of fall chinook salmon females in the Hanford Reach of the Columbia River carried a genetic marker linked to males. The study suggests environmental contaminants or water temperature changes may be responsible for this sex reversal, which could contribute to the decline of Northwest salmon runs.

SourceUniversity of Idaho·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateDec 14, 2000

Doctoral research awards for international development

The International Development Research Centre (IDRC) has awarded $20,000 doctoral research grants to five Canadian students. The winners will study various aspects of international development, including civil war's impact on Burundi's populations and the effects of State decentralization in Senegal.

SourceInternational Development Research Center·DateNov 1, 2000

Microbial marathon at joint genome institute

The Joint Genome Institute (JGI) has produced high-quality draft sequences of 15 bacterial genomes in under a month, representing diverse organisms and a new approach to sequencing microbes. This data will be publicly available, providing scientists with immediate access to essential information for research.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·DateNov 1, 2000
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.

Blending addiction treatment and research

The meeting aims to facilitate moving drug addiction research into clinical practice, with discussions on using research in real-life settings and forging partnerships. Presentations will cover topics such as the effects of drugs on the brain, gender issues in treatment, and innovations in medication development.

SourceNIH/National Institute on Drug Abuse·DateOct 17, 2000

Medical research protocols should be completely overhauled

The current medical research protocols are out of step with evidence-based medicine and new technology developments, suggests an analysis in the Journal of Medical Ethics. Patients taking part in research deserve the same safety and regulation standards as public transport passengers, yet often receive inadequate care.

SourceBMJ Specialty Journals·JournalJournal of Medical Ethics·DateOct 14, 2000