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IU optometrist receives $1.9 million to assess street-crossing program

An Indiana University assistant professor will evaluate the effectiveness of a nationwide training program to aid people with impaired vision in making safe street-crossing decisions. The research aims to improve pedestrian safety and quality of life for elderly, visually impaired, or blind individuals.

SourceIndiana University·DateSep 19, 2012

Study shows how consumers shift expectations and goals

A study by Gita Johar and Cecile K. Cho found that consumers often compare results to the highest potential outcomes, leading to low satisfaction even when goals are met. However, reminding participants of their original goals reverses this trend, making low performers as satisfied as high performers.

SourceColumbia Business School·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateSep 19, 2012
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.

Stanford faculty awarded $2.2 million for innovative energy research

Nine Stanford researchers received seed grants to explore promising new technologies in clean energy and energy efficiency. These projects include the development of high-performance batteries, ultrathin solar cells, and methods for capturing atmospheric carbon dioxide. The research has the potential to impact energy production and use...

SourceStanford University·DateSep 15, 2012

Neural implant recovers ability to make decisions

Researchers developed a neural prosthesis to restore decision-making processes in monkeys with disrupted cognitive function. The device, which stimulated specific brain cells, improved performance and even surpassed normal conditions.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalJournal of Neural Engineering·DateSep 13, 2012

Review: Altruism's influence on parental decision to vaccinate children is unclear

Researchers investigated whether altruism influences parental decisions to vaccinate their children against preventable diseases. Despite studies showing benefit to others motivates adults to vaccinate themselves, the review found no conclusive evidence that herd immunity plays a role in parents' decision-making.

SourceIndiana University School of Medicine·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateSep 11, 2012
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Disaster is just a click away

A team of researchers at Kansas State University is working on a project to develop improved security warning messages that prompt users to make gut decisions about online safety. They aim to minimize traditional text warnings and icons, instead using visual images to convey the importance and danger level of certain choices.

SourceKansas State University·DateSep 11, 2012
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.

Introducing decision aids may lower surgery for arthritis

Group Health's video-based decision aids for arthritis patients led to a sharp decline in knee and hip replacement surgeries by 38% and 26%, respectively, over six months. The cost of caring for those patients also decreased by 12-21%.

SourceGroup Health Research Institute·JournalHealth Affairs·DateSep 4, 2012

Managerial role associated with more automatic decision-making

Researchers found that managers and non-managers exhibit differential brain activation patterns during decision-making, with managers showing a more heuristic, automated approach. This study provides insight into the neural basis of managerial decision-making and its differences from non-managerial decisions.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 22, 2012
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Feedback can have a negative impact on performance

A study published in Frontiers in Neuroscience found that people's performance worsened when they had to make sense of feedback while performing a main task. The research highlights the importance of considering task complexity when providing feedback to avoid hindering performance.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalFrontiers in Neuroscience·DateAug 14, 2012

Let's talk: The nature of the health care surrogate-clinician relationship

A new study highlights the importance of frequent and coordinated communication between healthcare providers and family members who make decisions for hospitalized older adults with impaired cognition. Surrogate decision-makers crave detailed information, emotional support, and regular updates from clinicians to alleviate stress and an...

SourceIndiana University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateAug 8, 2012

A new model for predicting recovery after spinal cord injury

A new prediction model for long-term functional outcomes after traumatic spinal cord injury is presented, combining acute functional measures with imaging factors. The model has the potential to guide treatment decisions and improve patient care.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Neurotrauma·DateAug 8, 2012

Study examines decision-making brain activity in patients with hoarding disorder

Patients with hoarding disorder showed abnormal brain activity when deciding about possessions, with reduced activity for items not belonging to them and increased activity for items that did. The study found that these patients had difficulty discarding possessions, with fewer items discarded compared to healthy individuals.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of General Psychiatry·DateAug 6, 2012
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.

Judging the role of religion in law

A University of Alberta researcher says that when it comes to deciding on issues from human rights to balancing conflicting rights, cooler, secular heads should prevail. The emergence of Western democratic states gave rise to a separation of church and state, which guarantees freedom of religion and conscience for all.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalConstitutional Forum / Forum constitutionnel·DateAug 2, 2012

Telling the tale of the wealth tail

Researchers propose a mechanism of individual interaction to understand collective macroscopic behavior, finding power-law tails in some models. The diversity of saving propensity among individuals plays a role in shaping the distribution of wealth.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal B·DateJul 30, 2012

Annals of Internal Medicine tip sheet for July 31, 2012 online issue

The American College of Physicians recommends against routine electrocardiogram (ECG) screening for asymptomatic adults at low risk for coronary heart disease, as it may lead to unnecessary procedures and overtreatment. The Task Force also found inadequate evidence that ECG screening in this population reduces the risk for CHD events.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJul 30, 2012

Being in awe can expand time and enhance well-being

Research finds that experiencing awe can alter an individual's subjective experience of time by slowing it down. Awe also influences decisions, makes life feel more satisfying, and increases willingness to volunteer time to help others.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateJul 19, 2012

Punishment motivated by fairness, not revenge

A study published in Biology Letters found that humans punish cheats only when they end up better off than the punisher, challenging the notion of revenge-based motivation. The researchers aimed to clarify the relationship between punishment and cooperation by investigating underlying motivations.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalBiology Letters·DateJul 17, 2012
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.

Clemson researcher: Humanizing computer aids affects trust, dependence

A recent study by Clemson University psychologist Richard Pak found that humanizing computer aids can significantly alter perceptions of their reliability, leading to increased trust and dependence among adults. The design of decision-support aids on consumer devices plays a crucial role in shaping user behavior.

SourceClemson University·JournalErgonomics·DateJul 17, 2012
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.

A virtual crystal ball

The EUREAPA tool analyzes environmental impacts of different policies and scenarios, allowing policymakers to investigate how different policy changes affect future environmental pressures. It also helps track effects of decisions and ensure meeting of environmental goals.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·DateJun 21, 2012

Bomb threat? An app for that, too

The First Responder Support Tools (FiRST) application provides critical information to first responders in bomb threat scenarios, including safe distances, roadblock analysis and HAZMAT response guidance. The app is available for smartphones and laptops and can be used by anyone responding to a potential bomb or HAZMAT spill.

SourceUS Department of Homeland Security - Science and Technology·DateJun 21, 2012

Researchers advance biometric security

Researchers at University of Calgary developed a biometric security system that combines different measurements like eye colour and fingerprints to create a learning system simulating the brain. The algorithm can learn new patterns and adapt to changing conditions, improving accuracy and recognition process.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalInternational Journal of Information Technology and Management·DateJun 21, 2012

How humans predict other's decisions

Researchers at RIKEN Brain Science Institute found two brain signals involved in predicting others' decisions, enabling humans to balance expected and observed rewards and choices. The signals, located in distinct prefrontal circuits, strike a balance between the other's values and their own, allowing for accurate predictions.

SourceRIKEN·JournalNeuron·DateJun 20, 2012

Global collaboration aims to improve mother and newborn health

A global collaboration led by the University of York is examining key areas of reproductive, maternal and newborn care within midwifery services. The project will culminate in a special series on midwifery in The Lancet, providing evidence to guide national decision-making and improve midwifery services.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalThe Lancet·DateJun 19, 2012
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.

Should consumers trust their feelings as information?

Researchers found that high trust in feelings amplifies emotionally driven responses, even when faced with compelling information favoring the opposite choice. The study suggests that relying on feelings as information can lead to irrational decisions.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateJun 19, 2012

Breaking your budget? Why consumers overspend on exceptional purchases

A new study in the Journal of Consumer Research found that consumers underestimate how often they make 'exceptional' purchases, leading to overspending. The authors suggest that understanding these differences can help consumers make wiser budgeting decisions.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateJun 19, 2012

'Color blind' policies could make diversity harder to achieve

A recent study published in Current Directions in Psychological Science found that color-blind policies can backfire, leading to increased racial bias and tension. The authors propose a multicultural approach as an alternative, which has been shown to improve understanding and spotting of discrimination., Minority applicants perceive d...

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalCurrent Directions in Psychological Science·DateJun 19, 2012
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.

Training people to inhibit movements can reduce risk-taking

Training participants to inhibit simple movements reduced risk-taking in a simulated gambling situation, with effects lasting at least two hours. The study suggests that controlling motor responses can influence high-level decision-making, paving the way for potential treatments for addictions and impulse-control disorders.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalPsychological Science·DateJun 14, 2012

Pandemic preparedness

Researchers developed a web-based service that simulates pandemic flu spread, forecasts hospitalizations, and determines optimal ventilator placement. The Texas Pandemic Flu Toolkit uses data from the Outpatient Influenza-Like Illness Surveillance Network and factors like humidity predictions to inform public health interventions.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·DateJun 6, 2012

Fantasizing about your dream vacation could lead to poor decision-making

Research suggests that fantasizing about idealized future scenarios can influence people's preferences for learning about the positives over negatives. This can impact decision-making, even for those considering careful deliberations. Positive fantasies can mimic the effects of intentions and lead to biased information acquisition.

SourceSociety for Personality and Social Psychology·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·DateMay 31, 2012
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.

People know when to move on

Researchers discovered that people are equally good at finding the right balance between task completion time and reward points, regardless of task complexity. This suggests that humans may not be intrinsically bad or good at making decisions, but rather capable of adapting to different situations.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateMay 30, 2012

Wayne State develops IT solution to help disabled make better wheelchair selections

A Wayne State University researcher has developed a web-based decision support system to help people with disabilities select wheelchairs that suit their needs. The system improves the selection process by enabling remote assessment of wheelchair alternatives, providing a reusable information repository and systematic evaluation.

SourceWayne State University - Office of the Vice President for Research·JournalExpert Systems with Applications·DateMay 23, 2012

How do consumers achieve self-affirmation when purchasing products?

Researchers found that people who feel good about themselves are more likely to choose functional products over attractive ones. However, choosing highly aesthetic products can make people more open-minded and less prone to 'throwing good money after bad'.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateMay 16, 2012
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Can consumers 'fit in' yet remain unique?

Researchers found that consumers choose brands to identify with their in-group but differentiate by selecting unique features, such as colors or styles. This balance between assimilation and differentiation is key to understanding consumer behavior.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateMay 16, 2012

Negative view of foreign aid for health is based on flawed analysis

A recent study in PLOS Medicine challenges the widely-held view that foreign aid for health displaces government funds in recipient countries. Experts Rajaie Batniji and Eran Bendavid re-analysed data to find no straightforward negative relationship between government spending on health and foreign aid for health.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateMay 8, 2012

Best websites balance self-expression and functionality

A study by Penn State researchers found that users increase their interactivity and develop a greater sense of community when they can express themselves through blog posts, site customization, and gadget selection. However, too many functional gadgets lead to decreased satisfaction.

SourcePenn State·DateMay 7, 2012
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.

Smart gas sensors for better chemical detection

Researchers at the University of Michigan have developed a new smart gas sensor that can detect airborne chemicals with higher sensitivity and consume less power. The sensor uses a novel approach to separate chemicals in the gas mixture, allowing for more accurate identification and analysis.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateMay 1, 2012

Maintaining bridges on a budget

Concordia engineers develop a decision-making approach that considers factors like traffic, drainage system efficiency and seismic risk to prioritize bridge maintenance. The new method has the potential to reduce costs by avoiding costly repairs later on and promoting sustainability.

SourceConcordia University·JournalCanadian Journal of Civil Engineering·DateApr 30, 2012
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.

Rose-colored glasses: Are optimistic consumers more likely to trust salespeople?

A new study published in the Journal of Consumer Research suggests that people who believe the world is a just place trust salespeople more after making a purchase. The authors examined how consumers balance trust and protecting themselves from bad decisions, finding that optimism plays a crucial role in this process.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateApr 16, 2012

Diagnostic and invasive procedures common in women with breast-conserving surgery

A study found that over 10 years, 30.8% of women had diagnostic mammograms, while 61.5% underwent ipsilateral invasive procedures following BCS. The high rates may be due to concerns about recurrence, and the authors highlight the need for better prognostic biomarkers to minimize overtreatment.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateApr 5, 2012

Too dog tired to avoid danger

A new study found that dogs who have 'run out' of self-control make more impulsive decisions, increasing their risk of physical harm. In the experiment, dogs with depleted self-control spent more time near an aggressive dog than those without depleted self-control.

SourceSpringer·JournalPsychonomic Bulletin & Review·DateApr 2, 2012
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.