Articles tagged with Decision Making
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
A new study from the University of Missouri found that CEOs who prioritize employee job satisfaction can significantly improve customer satisfaction and loyalty. The researchers discovered a strong link between high employee satisfaction and customer loyalty, with twice as strong a positive impact compared to low employee satisfaction.
A new decision aid aims to improve communication between families and clinicians about end-of-life care for patients with prolonged mechanical ventilation. The study found that the decision aid reduced uncertainty and improved agreement between surrogates and healthcare providers about patient outcomes.
Research from Rice University and the University of Delaware found that unverifiable information like personal stories enhances lending decisions. Borrowers who explain their circumstances but deny details have poor loan performance. Using a 'trustworthy' identity can lower costs by almost 30% and save $375 in interest charges.
New research finds that teens use peers as a metric for autonomy, with younger girls wanting more freedom than older boys. Teens consistently overestimate their peers' levels of autonomy, assuming they have more freedoms than themselves.
The Lancet series highlights Brazil's successes in healthcare, but also notes areas of concern such as high caesarean section rates and increasing obesity. The country's experience offers valuable lessons for addressing health inequities and implementing reforms to prioritize public health.
Pakistani public health experts express shock and dismay at the government's plan to abolish the Ministry of Health. The move is seen as a threat to national health functions and capacity, particularly in light of ongoing challenges such as polio eradication and inadequate healthcare infrastructure.
A new survey finds that discussions surrounding feeding tube insertion are often inadequate, with 13.7% of family members stating medical providers inserted the tube without discussion first. Despite research questioning the value of feeding tubes, 32.9% of people in the survey reported improved quality of life for their loved ones.
Jack Levis, INFORMS Vice President and Director of Process Management at UPS, led his team to win the 2011 Gartner Business Intelligence Excellence Award. The award recognizes UPS's successful implementation of business intelligence and advanced analytics to improve operational efficiency and customer service.
New research from the University of Cincinnati suggests that small business owners who consult with outside advisors are more likely to achieve revenues sooner. By seeking input from respected colleagues, business owners can bring fresh perspectives and information into their decision-making process, leading to better outcomes.
A study published in the Journal of Business Research found that Chinese adolescents are heavily influenced by their parents, while Canadian teens are more likely to make independent decisions. Parenting practices and cultural values play a significant role in shaping teen outlooks and decision-making patterns.
A new study found that the brain has an automatic reaction to unfairness in financial fairness games, linked to increased amygdala activity. Targeting this region can reduce aggression and increase tendency to accept unfair distributions of money.
A study by UC Riverside psychologists found that potential users of direct-to-consumer genetic tests are influenced by perceived benefits and barriers to testing, as well as anticipated regret over testing versus not testing. Participants who received only positive information expressed greater intentions to pursue testing.
A Clemson University researcher is developing a new approach to designing more energy-efficient buildings by applying psychology concepts such as choice architecture and cognitive bias. His research aims to improve the decision-making process of engineers in building design, which could lead to widespread adoption of net-zero buildings.
A recent study published in Archives of Surgery found that patients with do-not-resuscitate (DNR) orders have a higher risk of poor surgical outcomes, including increased mortality rates and complication rates. The study analyzed data from over 120 hospitals and found that nearly a quarter of DNR patients died within 30 days of surgery.
Experts warn that disclosing quantitative data to patients can backfire due to numeracy problems and biases in interpreting data. Studies show that decision aids increase patient knowledge but may not always lead to informed decisions. Researchers advocate for further research on presenting risk information to aid decision-making.
A survey of US primary care physicians found that making treatment recommendations changes the way physicians think about medical decisions. In scenarios involving colon cancer and avian influenza, physicians chose different treatments for themselves versus those they recommended to patients.
A video-based decision aid helped patients weigh the pros and cons of bariatric surgery, leading to greater certainty and less conflict. The trial found that patients who watched the video felt more informed and confident in their decisions.
A new study found that young women with breast cancer have limited knowledge about fertility issues, causing confusion and conflict when planning for a family. The researchers suggest providing targeted fertility information may reduce uncertainty and increase informed decision-making.
A study by researchers at New York University found overlapping neurological mechanisms between goal-directed actions and habitual behaviors. The findings suggest that the brain's systems for different behaviors are more intertwined than previously thought, paving the way for addressing addiction and similar maladies.
A new study of small private firms in 21 emerging market countries found that those with higher quality accounting make better investment decisions. Firms with strong incentives to minimize taxes have poorer financial reporting and less efficient investment decisions.
A study found that sleep deprivation leads to increased activity in brain regions assessing positive outcomes and decreased activity in those processing negative outcomes. As a result, sleep-deprived individuals are more likely to choose options with potential gains over those with potential losses.
Researchers argue that IRBs often neglect reporting and methodological quality in preclinical experiments, leading to inadequate risk-benefit assessments. A proposed solution suggests considering evidence on risks and benefits of agents targeting related biological pathways.
A new study suggests that people are more likely to allow something bad to happen rather than causing it, especially if they know someone will judge them. The researchers found that participants were more willing to let a timer run out, resulting in less money for themselves, when they knew someone was watching and would penalize them.
UCLA researchers found a correlation between nicotine addiction and decreased prefrontal cortex activity in adolescent smokers. The study suggests that smoking can affect brain function, particularly during adolescence when the prefrontal cortex is still developing.
A study published in Psychological Science found that people with full bladders make better decisions by holding out for larger rewards. This contradicts the concept of ego depletion, suggesting bladder control is an automatic process.
Researchers find that oral steroids improve symptoms of chronic rhinosinusitis with polyposis, while surrogate treatment decisions have a significant negative emotional impact on healthcare providers. The Hepatitis B vaccine has reduced infections in children, but targeted efforts are needed for adults. The USPSTF is updating its scree...
A study of 360 patients found that those with chest pain and serious family health problems want to participate in treatment decisions. Women patients generally have higher expectations for listening and information from their female doctor than men, particularly when it comes to managing family health issues.
A study found that participants acted more morally than they predicted, with emotion playing a central role in moral behavior. The researchers suggest that people misjudge their emotional responses when considering moral dilemmas, leading to unexpected actions.
Leading scientists advocate for a modified approach to assessing policy options on biodiversity and ecosystem services. They argue that hypothetical scenarios do not represent real-world policy options, emphasizing the need for authoritative scientific advice on actual policy choices.
A new study in the Journal of Consumer Research found that rejecting alternatives can lead consumers to reverse their preferences. Consumers may focus on less-preferred options when trying to decide what they don't want, making them more likely to notice appealing features of alternative options.
A new study by Temple University psychologists Jason Chein and Laurence Steinberg found that the presence of peers heightens teens' sensitivity to rewards, leading them to take more risks. The researchers used fMRI to measure brain activity in adolescents, young adults, and adults while playing a simulated driving game.
A study published in Annals of Internal Medicine finds that current legal restrictions hinder the effectiveness of advance directives, which allow patients to specify their end-of-life care preferences. The researchers propose reforms to relax these restrictions and promote universal acceptance of oral advance directives.
A study conducted at four US intensive care units found that caregivers who hadn't discussed life support measures with critically ill patients took nearly two weeks longer to make decisions. Patients' loved ones were also more confident as surrogate decision-makers when they perceived high-quality communication with physicians.
A new study in Journal of Consumer Research found that people who feel depleted from exerting self-control tend to pass up the most desirable choices and opt for options with lower-level features. This is known as the 'easy path effect', where individuals prioritize short-term rewards over long-term benefits.
A new underwater warfare model has been developed by Korean researchers, using the DEVS formalism, to analyze the effectiveness of various tactics and weapon systems in combat scenarios. The model provides a flexible framework for testing different algorithms and parameters with minimal modification.
Researchers found a communication intervention effective in reducing ICU stays for chronic patients but less so for surgical and neurological cases. The study highlights the need for tailored approaches to support families making critical decisions for their loved ones.
A new study published in Psychological Science finds that the trustworthiness of our intuition is linked to what's happening physically in our bodies. Subtle changes in heart rate and sweat responses affect decision making, with some people relying on intuition to win at a card game.
ASU professors Patricia Gober and Craig Kirkwood assess the impact of climate change on water shortages in Phoenix. Their study provides options for solutions, including changing landscape type, limiting pools, and investing in leak fixes. By embracing uncertainty, residents can reduce risk and protect themselves from water scarcity.
Research from the University of Cincinnati and Massachusetts General Hospital found that warfarin, a common anticoagulant, may not be suitable for all atrial fibrillation patients due to declining stroke risk. The study suggests that treatment guidelines should consider individual patient risks and benefits.
Carnegie Mellon University has launched a new center for climate and energy decision making, developing strategies to protect fragile ecosystems and curb carbon emissions. The center will also educate graduate students on climate change and its impact on the environment.
A review of 134 studies on breast reconstruction found inconsistent reporting and a lack of standardization in outcome assessment. The authors highlight the need for non-clinical factors such as patient-reported outcomes to be incorporated into outcome assessment.
A new study published in Psychological Science found that negative gender stereotypes can influence women's financial decision-making, making them more wary of risk. The researchers discovered that when participants were exposed to these stereotypes, women became less likely to take calculated risks and more cautious in their decisions.
A new study of married couples in the US found that those who score well on a simple test of numeracy ability accumulate more wealth by middle age. Couples where both spouses answered three numeracy-related questions correctly averaged $1.7 million in household wealth, compared to $200,000 for those with poor numeracy skills.
Researchers found that participants trusted specialized technology more than general websites and recommendation agents, with cumulative interaction increasing trust. The study suggests mental shortcuts, such as heuristics, contribute to the perception of expertise and trustworthiness in labeled e-commerce tools.
A recent study found that more than half of surrogate decision makers prefer to have full authority over the choice of life-support for incapacitated patients. However, a significant portion want to share or cede power to physicians. The extent of control varies based on trust in the physician overseeing care.
A study of smokers and non-smokers found that smokers have a thinner cerebral cortex, specifically in the medial orbito-frontal region. This region is crucial for reward, impulse control, and decision-making. Further research is needed to determine if smoking causes or contributes to this brain structure change.
The University of California, Davis is part of a consortium co-hosting the new Southwest Climate Science Center. Researchers say signs of climate change are prevalent in the region, including rising temperatures, earlier snowmelt, and increasing precipitation intensity.
Researchers found humans can engage in higher levels of recursive reasoning, making decisions based on anticipated opponent moves. The study used a game called the "3-2-1-4 Game" and showed participants could easily move beyond first-level thinking to more complex strategies.
NASA has formed a single systems engineering organization for its James Webb Space Telescope, combining Northrop Grumman's expertise with NASA's mission-level decision-making. The new team aims to streamline communication and decision-making, reducing costs and meeting the launch goal with minimal risk.
A recent national study highlights the need to improve engineering education in the US to produce innovative scientists and engineers. The report identifies key opportunities for improvement, including enhancing communication and professional skills, integrating context into design processes, and making undergraduate programs more acce...
Researchers found that certain neurons represent accumulation of evidence to a threshold and others represent evidence itself, driving decision-making. The study offers potential insights into psychological disorders, such as ADHD, where impairments in decision-making occur.
A study in CMAJ highlights areas for improvement in end-of-life care in Canada, including emotional support, communication, and decision-making. Patients and families reported high satisfaction rates but identified key gaps in understanding end-stage care expectations and technological use at the end of life.
New research from UC Berkeley found that magnetic pulses disrupt neurons governing motor skills, increasing left hand use in right-handed volunteers. The study challenges previous assumptions about decision-making and may pave the way for clinical advances in brain injury rehabilitation.
A recent study published in PLOS ONE suggests that brain abnormalities may underlie the development of antisocial behavior and drug abuse in boys. The research found significant differences in brain activity between antisocial boys and their peers, including reduced activity in regions responsible for decision-making and reward process...
A study by Timothy Vyse and colleagues found that common CRP genetic variants are associated with acute-phase serum CRP concentrations in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. This association may influence therapeutic decision making and lead to improved clinical interpretation of inflammatory disease activity.
Researchers found that people tend to inherit tendencies such as choosing compromise options and avoiding extremes. Additionally, genetic factors seem to play a role in likings for specific products like chocolate, hybrid cars, and science fiction movies.
A study published in Science has found that the anterior prefrontal cortex and white matter structure are associated with introspective ability. Researchers used MRI scans to analyze participants' brains and identified a correlation between gray matter volume and self-awareness, which could lead to better treatments for mental illness.
Researchers used a particle model to explain how birds make decisions when landing on foraging flights. The collective switching from flying to landing state overrides individual intentions, heavily influenced by bird position within the flock and perturbations.
A JAMA article recommends integrating biomedical informatics into medical education to improve physicians' ability to manage information and make informed decisions. The field of biomedical informatics has four major areas of applications, including bioinformatics, imaging informatics, clinical informatics, and public health informatics.
Researchers found that video game players develop a heightened sensitivity to their surroundings, improving skills like multitasking and driving. They were up to 25% faster at making quick decisions than non-gamers.