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 in Strategic Management Journal examines how outside directors' prior experience influences a firm's acquisitions. The study finds that firms with experienced directors make better acquisition decisions, especially when the acquired products are similar to those being pursued by the firm.
A study of healthcare providers and patients found that they often disagree on the need for total knee replacement surgery, despite both agreeing on its benefits. Patient satisfaction and adherence to treatment recommendations improve when there is greater agreement between providers and patients.
A study of surrogate decision-makers for critically ill patients found that 87% want to hear all prognostic estimates, even if uncertain. Family members value candor in discussing uncertain outcomes and want to prepare for the chance of their loved one's death.
Researchers at the University of Rochester found that humans make optimal decisions when their unconscious brain processes information. A test revealed that people's brains subconsciously gather data and reach a confidence threshold before reporting a decision to the conscious mind.
New brain-imaging research from UC San Diego finds that visual areas respond more strongly to objects of value, altering neural activation in the human visual system. This altered processing affects not only high-level cognitive function but also early stages of information processing.
A new study examines how consumers evaluate brand features to make choices, finding that goal-oriented individuals prefer rapid progress in decision-making, while those focused on avoiding mistakes value detailed information. This understanding has important implications for designing persuasive marketing messages.
The special section of Medical Decision Making examines three evidence-based theories to assess, prevent, and intervene in healthcare decisions. These theories provide a bridge between research advances and health outcomes.
A University of Minnesota study using fMRI scans found that considering a third, less attractive option can improve preference for the better item. This 'decoy effect' can help consumers make easier choices, reducing negative emotions and increasing sales for retailers.
A recent study found that powerful individuals make better decisions when they engage in unconscious thinking, similar to the way most people process information. The research suggests that having power changes how people think and approach complex decision-making.
Researchers found that unconscious thought was not always effective in making the best choices. Instead, thinking about a decision at one's own pace and focusing on the problem led to larger payoffs. The study suggests that relying on self-paced conscious thought can be a more reliable approach for complex decisions.
Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory have created new agent-based models to better understand market behavior and predict potential economic catastrophes. These models use information from surveys and simulations to forecast how individual actors in a market make decisions, allowing policymakers to anticipate and avoid meltdowns.
Researchers at UT Health Science Center Houston are tackling healthcare information technology issues using a $1.3 million AHRQ grant, focusing on projects to increase patient safety. The trainees aim to design systems that help physicians prioritize notifications and make informed decisions in the emergency room.
Neuroscientists from the University of Washington found that stress impairs rats' ability to seek out larger rewards in a maze, lasting several days. A study using rats and muscimol to inactivate the amygdala showed that stressed rats were unable to adjust their behavior and learn from experience.
Stickleback fish follow a consensus decision-making process to choose their leader, prioritizing size, fatness, and health. As group size increases, accuracy improves, but occasional errors occur due to submission to peers and cascades of incorrect decisions.
Entrepreneurs are riskier decision-makers than managers, according to a study published in Nature. The study found that entrepreneurs' 'functional impulsivity', or ability to make quick decisions under stress, is linked to brain neurochemistry and may be possible to teach or enhance with pharmaceuticals.
Researchers found that making comparisons, even on unrelated topics, activates a comparative mind-set that boosts willingness to buy one out of two options. This effect persists and influences decisions in subsequent situations.
Researchers found that people choose differently when given feedback in experiential choices compared to descriptive choices. The study suggests that feedback may drive individuals towards rational decision-making by treating small probabilities more objectively.
Scientists report that a simple decision-making task does not involve the frontal lobes, instead relying on the parietal lobe to process sensory information and control responses. This finding challenges the traditional view of human decision-making as willful acts, suggesting that many decisions may be driven by automatic processes.
A study published in Management Science found that distant participants make less accurate judgments when communicating via videoconferencing. Face-to-face meetings allow for more nuanced interpretation of nonverbal cues.
A new study examines how stress affects decision-making in older and younger adults, revealing that stressed older adults alter their behavior more significantly. The researchers found that stressed older adults were not only more cautious but also jerkier drivers, braking almost three times as much as their calmer peers.
A study published in Medical Decision Making found that cardiac risk estimates vary between Christians and Muslims, with more serious estimates given to Christians. The research highlights the psychological impact of mortality concerns on healthcare decisions.
The International Council for Science has launched a 10-year research program to address the gaps in knowledge and methods preventing effective application of science to mitigate disasters. The program aims to provide enhanced global capacity to address hazards and make better decisions to reduce their impacts.
Norhealth is a web-based system monitoring health trends and risk factors in Norway, creating a knowledge base for health strategies. The Norwegian Institute of Public Health has developed this leading public health information system in Europe.
Thomas L. Saaty, inventor of AHP, revolutionized decision-making with a breakthrough methodology that's widely used in business and government. His work has had a broad practical impact on operations research and related fields.
A study published in Psychological Science found that people who rely on their emotions during negotiations tend to make simpler and cleaner offers, but still achieve good outcomes. This suggests that emotional decision making may be both simpler and more lucrative than traditional calculation-based approaches.
Research funded by the Wellcome Trust found people with autism spectrum disorders tend to be more consistent in their decision-making due to reduced emotional influence. This attention to detail can help them avoid irrational choices but may hinder social interactions that require gut instincts.
Researchers found that web search activity stimulates key centers in the brain, controlling decision-making and complex reasoning. This triggers a greater extent of neural circuitry, indicating potential benefits for cognitive function in older adults.
A new study in the Journal of Consumer Research found that consumers are more likely to make a purchase when given complete information about products. Marketers can apply these strategies to reduce the number of customers who leave empty-handed and increase sales.
A new report highlights the issue of statistical illiteracy in health, with misleading presentation of relative risks and lack of absolute risk information. The problem affects both doctors and patients, leading to incorrect decisions and actions.
A study found that sequential withdrawal of life support is more common than thought and associated with higher satisfaction among surviving family members. The study suggests that improving communication between physicians and families is key to better care.
A new study finds that companies in Democratic states tend to have higher corporate social responsibility (CSR) ratings than those in Republican states. The research analyzed the 2004 presidential election results of communities where corporate headquarters are located, revealing a correlation between political views and CSR ratings.
A new study published in Journal of Consumer Research found that ad placement influences consumer perception, with experts reacting differently to positive and negative context. The researchers discovered that knowledgeable consumers evaluate products more favorably when presented with relevant context ads.
Researchers found that people who are presented with vague information after making a decision tend to feel more optimistic about their choice. In three studies, participants were shown to be more optimistic when given incomplete nutritional information or sketchy reviews on products like chocolates and hand lotions.
A new study finds that brief interruptions can alter purchasing decisions, causing a shift from detail-oriented, price-conscious thinking to goal-oriented, price-insensitive consideration. Participants who were interrupted in decision-making processes prioritized qualities like satisfaction and desirability over feasibility and price.
Dr. Torke, an assistant professor of medicine at Indiana University School of Medicine, will conduct a large study on surrogate decision making for hospitalized older adults. The two-year, $200,000 award is sponsored by the John A. Hartford Foundation and supports physician-scientists focused on improving healthcare for older adults.
A new study in Strategic Management Journal reveals that Boards of Directors commonly make faulty hires when they hire CEOs from outside the firm. Creating nominating committees with leadership by outside directors can help avoid this problem and increase the chances of a newly appointed CEO succeeding.
Researchers developed a tool, Distribution Builder, to help investors understand their risk attitudes and make informed decisions. The tool estimates unacceptable risk levels using probability distributions, enabling users to construct better preferences.
Research reveals physicians often grapple with balancing patient needs with those of surrogates in medical decision-making. Surrogate decision-makers' wishes can sometimes take precedence over patient prior wishes, highlighting the complexity of this process.
Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory discovered that laboratory rats' brains signal uncertainty when making decisions, reflecting their level of confidence. The study found that rats preferentially abort uncertain trials, indicating that confidence plays a crucial role in guiding behavior.
A new study found that referees tend to award more points to tae kwon do competitors dressed in red than those dressed in blue. The researchers discovered a split-second bias toward red-clad athletes when competitors are evenly matched in skill.
Researchers created a new prognostic model for traumatic brain injury using patient characteristics from the IMPACT database, including age, motor component of Glasgow coma score, and pupillary reactivity. The model also includes haemoglobin and glucose measurement, providing a more comprehensive prediction of outcomes.
A study published in The Lancet Neurology found that telemedicine consultations resulted in more accurate decision-making compared to telephone consultations for patients with acute stroke. The study showed a 98% correct treatment decision rate for telemedicine versus 82% for telephone consultations.
Minority women were significantly less likely to be aware of their odds of survival after five years, regardless of surgeon volume or hospital setting. Women who asked about treatment options had better knowledge, highlighting the need for clear communication from surgeons.
A new software has been developed to delete confidential patient data from medical records, leaving essential information intact. The system was tested on a large database of nursing notes and successfully removed over 94% of sensitive information, with only 0.2% of useful content mistakenly deleted.
The US EPA has funded three interdisciplinary teams to explore the links between biodiversity and human health, focusing on Lyme disease and West Nile encephalitis. Research will investigate how environmental factors and people's behaviors contribute to disease transmission.
Researchers from the University of Bristol found that mammals have two decision-making systems: a fast-but-inaccurate sub-cortical brain and a slow-but-accurate outer cortex. The study suggests that the older system may still be beneficial in modern situations, potentially preventing atrophy and smaller brains in future humans.
A study published in Decision Analysis warns that long-term climate change policy is likely to change slowly, requiring stronger short-term goals. The researcher argues that considering path dependence in decision-making justifies greater near-term emissions reductions as a hedging strategy.
Expressing fuel efficiency in gallons per mile rather than miles per gallon can help consumers choose more fuel-efficient cars. This format reveals the actual gas savings from improvements in fuel efficiency, making it easier for families to identify the most efficient option within their chosen car class.
Roger Schroeder examines Six Sigma's effectiveness in cutting costs and improving profitability. He defines the methodology and builds an academic framework, identifying consistent elements such as parallel-meso structures, strategic project selection, leadership engagement, and structured methodologies.
A team of Cornell researchers has created a computer program to optimize ambulance deployment and reduce response times. The program estimates the best way to spread ambulances across a municipality to maximize coverage at all times.
Researchers from Cardiff University challenge the reliability of Hawk-Eye's line call accuracy, suggesting that sports decision aids should come with a 'health' warning. The study proposes the Automated Decision Principle, which states that automated systems should reproduce human systematic errors rather than correcting them.
A study by Matthew T. Billett and Yiming Qian found that CEOs who exhibit self-attribution bias tend to overcredit their role in successful deals and underestimate the impact of luck, leading to more value-destructive acquisitions. The authors advise CEOs to be cautious and boards to ensure proposed deals are judged on their own merits.
A researcher at Penn State is examining how users choose a search engine, evaluate its performance, and react to individual results. The study aims to build a multi-layer model of branding in search engine selection and final web page evaluation.
A new study reveals that individuals with higher working memory capacity are more likely to make consistent moral judgments and consider consequences of their actions. This capacity helps control emotional reactions, allowing for deliberate processing and rational decision-making.
A study found that patients with heart failure significantly overestimated their remaining life span, with median overestimation of 40% compared to clinical predictions. Younger patients and those with more severe disease were more likely to make longer predictions, while depression was not a predictive factor.
A new study in the Journal of Consumer Research found that consumers with highly developed emotional sensibilities are better at making product choices. The authors developed a scale to assess consumer emotional ability, which predicts overeating and other unhealthy behaviors.
A novel method for measuring people's abilities to consider the consequences of their actions has been developed, with high scores associated with more consequence-related thoughts. Consumers who think about pros and cons before making decisions report improved health outcomes and better financial habits.
Studies revealed that people's brains respond differently to unfairness, with the orbital frontal cortex reacting to giving and the insula processing inequity. The findings suggest that a basic impulse to be fair is hardwired in humans, driven by emotional responses.
A new study reveals that ICU physicians are less comfortable discussing end-of-life issues and do it less frequently with African-American patients than with Caucasian patients. Researchers analyzed data from over 1,200 physicians and found a significant disparity in prognostic conversations with patients of different racial backgrounds.
A qualitative study of English family practice found that pay-for-performance programs reduce continuity of care and increase fragmentation. The programs also changed the nature of patient consultations, leaving physicians feeling less skilled and disconnected from patients.