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.
Drosophila melanogaster flies respond to dropping black discs with jumping, using both legs and wings to move away from the object. The 'giant fibre pathway' initiates a take-off sequence, involving leg stretching and wing depression.
Researchers found that people constructing job criteria favor the strengths of dominant groups. However, committing to hiring criteria beforehand eliminates gender discrimination in hiring decisions.
New research from University at Buffalo biologists found that female butterflies are attracted to the sparkle created by ultraviolet reflectivity of pupils in male butterfly wings, not the size of the eyespots. Females prefer a set of narrowly defined features, such as eyespot pupils measuring approximately half a millimeter.
A survey of women aged 40-44 found they value logistical, harm, and benefit information before their first screening mammogram. Women prefer to participate in the decision-making process, with some preferring clinician input.
A study of Japanese and US medical residents found that Japanese doctors are more likely to involve patients' families in decision-making, reflecting stronger family ties in Japan. In contrast, US residents tend to prioritize individual autonomy, with many preferring to communicate solely with the patient.
A study found that angry consumers were 37% more likely to choose default options than sad individuals. Sad people tend to examine all the options carefully and make informed decisions.
A study by Teuscher found that time limits can amplify emotions in both positive and negative directions. This research has implications for understanding how people cope with endings and transitions, such as death, separations, or retirement.
A study found that damage to the orbital frontal cortex impairs an animal's ability to learn from new cues, leading to slowed neural responses. The researchers discovered a critical role of the OFC in decision-making and learning, with potential implications for treatments of brain injury and trauma.
A new website, CCIR-NY, offers scientific answers to basic questions about climate change and its impact on New York City. The site provides information on potential flooding of transportation infrastructure, saltwater intrusion into water supplies, and erosion of public beaches.
The role of the National Security Council adviser requires balancing brokerage and political advocacy to maintain neutrality. However, in limited forms, advocacy can be beneficial when an underrepresented point-of-view needs to be heard. The adviser's ability to make sound decisions depends on effective processes.
A study found that patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease who are aware of their diagnosis and symptoms can make competent decisions about their treatment. The Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) score can help predict decision-making abilities, with those scoring 24 or higher indicating competence.
Hinke Piersma's research explores the interaction between political decision-making and public debate regarding 'the Breda three', four prisoners who became two in 1979. The discussion increasingly focused on integrity, as the Dutch population was criticized for failing to protect Jewish compatriots during WWII.
Research suggests pathological gamblers exhibit altered decision-making functions and executive control, leading to long-term negative consequences. The study sheds light on the role of the prefrontal cortex in this neuropsychiatric disorder.
A team of researchers has discovered a neural mechanism related to impulsive decision-making in pigeons. The study found that single neurons in the avian forebrain show increased activity when anticipating rewards, with activation levels decreasing as delays increase, leading to preferences for immediate over delayed rewards. This brea...
Oaxacan migrants prioritize family and community over individual gain, using remittances to fulfill obligations and maintain social status. Most migrants return home for no more than a year to support households, construct homes, and pay for education.
This study explores how positive emotions, specifically pride, influence consumer behavior and repurchasing decisions. Key findings show that high pride can lead to reduced repurchase intentions due to differing self-regulatory goals. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for predicting consumer behavior in marketing strategies.
The article highlights five major types of conflict in caring for the dying patient, including physician-family, physician-nurse, and family-family conflicts. It suggests negotiating a course of treatment with all parties involved to avoid potential conflicts and emphasizes the importance of empathy in resolving disputes.
The Franz Edelman Award, presented by INFORMS, recognizes outstanding implemented operations research that has had a significant positive impact on client organizations. The 2005 finalists will compete for a $10,000 prize in Palm Springs, showcasing innovations such as advanced pricing techniques and online product procurement auctions.
A study found that women with heart conditions are less likely to receive bypass surgery due to conservative treatment decisions and biases. Women's mortality risk is often compared to men's, but the author argues that this perspective neglects the potential benefits of surgery for women with similar medical profiles.
Researchers found that training designed to eliminate racial biases in police interactions can be effective in reducing biased reactions. The study used a simulation to test the impact of different approaches on officer behavior, and the results suggest that such training could lead to improved outcomes for all parties involved.
A study of six European countries found significant variations in end-of-life nontreatment decisions, with medication being the most frequently forgone treatment. Low-technology interventions were also common, particularly among older patients outside hospital settings.
A Pitt researcher has developed a decision-making model to help patients weigh the risks and benefits of accepting organ transplants. The model uses mathematical techniques to provide insight into patient physiology and quality of life, helping doctors make informed decisions.
A study by Eliesh O'Neil Lane explores the roles of IRB members and how to improve the decision-making process. The composition of IRBs affects the types of issues discussed during reviews, with defined roles needed for scientists, non-scientists, and nonaffiliated members.
Researchers developed a mathematical model that explains how the brain carries out working memory tasks, including loading, holding, and comparing information. The model makes predictions about the neurological basis of working memory.
Medical students learn to make difficult decisions with uncertainty, but also need to articulate their reasons. A new training approach helps doctors reason ethically and balance patient autonomy with societal obligations.
A study published in Liver Transplantation found that liver disease severity does not accurately predict quality of life, suggesting alternative methods should be considered for organ allocation. Patients with end-stage liver disease experience impaired quality of life, but this is not correlated with MELD scores.
Researchers create a system that takes chaotic reports from the field and transforms them into useful information for decision-makers and emergency responders. The system, undergoing beta testing, is designed to suggest likely scenarios and provide confidence measures within minutes of receiving initial reports.
Researchers found that consumers tend to favor singular brands over average options, even if they don't necessarily outperform others. This phenomenon leads to higher purchasing rates when consumers feel good about the product, not just the average option.
Researchers find that consumers perceive defaults as indicative of marketers' intentions, leading to biased choices. This phenomenon is known as marketplace metacognition, where consumers try to decipher the marketer's intended choice.
Research reveals that consumers prioritize product categories over brands when making purchasing decisions. The study finds that subjective knowledge drives consumer behavior, leading them to seek out specific areas of stores that align with their values.
Researchers found that hospitals should prioritize fairness over quick decisions when facing a crisis like SARS, citing the need for transparency and accountability in decision-making. The study suggests areas for improvement, including better access to rationales behind decisions and formal revision/appeals mechanisms.
Researchers trained European starlings to choose between rich food sources and decoys, finding that 'irrational' preferences resulted from energetic state rather than cognitive mechanisms. The study warns against introducing confounding effects in nonbiological framework testing ideas.
The study highlights the need for improved decision-analytic models to capture the complexity of PD symptoms and treatment complications. Long-term effects of treatment on clinical symptoms and health-related quality of life are crucial in evaluating PD interventions.
Procter & Gamble has won the INFORMS Prize for its far-reaching integration of operations research into organizational decision making. The company's use of analytics and operations research has contributed substantially to its bottom line over the last decade, driving strategies for manufacturing capacity and distribution networks.
The study ranked prescriptive graduate decision programs based on the quality of their contributions to education and research. The highest-rated programs include Duke, Harvard, Stanford, Carnegie Mellon, University of Chicago, and University of Pennsylvania.
The Lancet editorial emphasizes the need for a more compassionate approach to end-of-life medical decisions, particularly in cases where parents and doctors disagree. The article advocates for arbitration as an alternative to court proceedings, citing its potential to resolve conflicts in a more constructive manner.
A study found that 31% of acute medical inpatients lack mental capacity, but recognition by clinical staff is low. Increasing age and cognitive impairment are key factors associated with a lack of mental capacity.
Researchers at NIMH identified a brain region in the frontal cortex as the site of perceptual decision-making, which weighs competing signals from specialized visual processing areas. The discovery could explain why harder-to-identify images evoke slower responses in this area.
Researchers discovered a brain region, lateral intraparietal (LIP) area, plays a key role in subjective decisions about actions. Monkeys trained to play a game against computer opponent adopted the same strategy as humans, suggesting similar neural processes are at play.
Diane Swanson's research reveals that executives prioritizing ethics tend to prefer fair pay, while those downplaying values often have higher salaries. This finding highlights the need for business education to focus on service to community rather than self-centeredness.
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University challenge the somatic marker hypothesis, a widely-held theory on decision-making. The study suggests that bodily states may not be as influential in guiding decisions as previously thought.
The study found that adolescents' autonomy increased over five years, with more independence in personal and multifaceted issues as they aged. Parental involvement in prudential and conventional decisions was associated with better adjustment, while joint decision-making on multifaceted issues predicted positive outcomes.
The Lancet task force outlines a research agenda to strengthen health systems and deliver effective interventions in an equitable manner. The proposal aims to enhance capacity for delivering life-saving interventions, particularly in the developing world.
A study found that 65% of physicians made treatment decisions inconsistent with their patients' advance directives. Despite the presence of these documents, physicians prioritized other factors in difficult clinical situations. The authors emphasize the need for improved conflict resolution in end-of-life decision making.
Karol Zyczkowski and Wojciech Slomczynski found that citizens in different EU countries will have unequal influence on Council of Ministers decisions. They propose a fairer solution called the Jagiellonian Compromise, where voting power is proportional to population, giving smaller states equal weight.
Researchers developed a 'Wireless Health Outcomes Monitoring System' (WHOMS) that enables doctors to send short questionnaires to patients via mobile phone, reducing the need for printed questionnaires. The system aims to improve doctor-patient communication and prioritize patients in serious need.
A recent study by the University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center found that breast cancer patients who made their own treatment decisions were more likely to choose mastectomies over breast-conserving surgeries. The study also revealed that fewer than a third of women with mastectomies received reconstructive surgery, and those...
Researchers found that among patients with confirmed Crohn's disease, clinical decisions based on capsule endoscopy findings improved outcomes in 95% of patients. Capsule endoscopy was also 100 percent effective in excluding a diagnosis of Crohn's disease.
A comprehensive review of hundreds of studies on living wills finds they fail to meet five key criteria for success. The researchers argue that living wills offer a false promise of control over end-of-life treatment and recommend using durable powers of attorneys instead.
A study found that clerks at large urban medical centers make discretionary choices when deciding whether to provide care to uninsured patients. Despite policies being ambiguous or incomplete, most frontline staff reported not turning patients away.
A new three-step process developed by NIST's Office of Applied Economics evaluates the vulnerability of facilities to terrorist threats, considering engineering, management, and financial strategies. The tool assesses the most cost-effective combination of risk reduction strategies to protect facilities from damages.
NIST develops standardized emergency response software and proposes industry-government collaboration to enhance interoperability. The proposed Electronic Emergency Response Framework will provide decision-makers with easily accessible modeling and simulation tools.
A six-month aerobic exercise program improved cognitive performance on a decision-making task in older adults by reducing behavioral conflict. The study used functional magnetic resonance imaging to measure changes in brain activity in middle-frontal and superior parietal regions, which were associated with improved performance.
Scientists, including Stephen H. Schneider, will discuss challenges of assessing and communicating scientific risk in managing marine fisheries. Schneider also emphasizes the importance of effective science communication to counter false dichotomies in media coverage.
Researchers studied household land-use strategies in Brazil and the Midwest, finding that crop prices, conservation plans, and state/federal forest protection programs influence decisions. This complexity may make it difficult for policymakers to develop a single, uniform policy for entire regions.
Patients want more information about managing their heart conditions, particularly regarding diet, high cholesterol, and exercise. Despite a clear preference for sharing decision-making with doctors, patients reported feeling moderately well-informed and wanting more information.
A study of 70 patients found that informed consent before cataract surgery had no significant impact on their decisions. Cognitive dissonance also played a role in shaping their choices. The results suggest that ophthalmologists should consider the limited influence of informed consent in surgical decision-making.
Operations researchers at Delta Air Lines used simulations to optimize boarding processes, resulting in a 25% reduction in aircraft turnaround time. The study's findings suggest improved utilization and increased convenience for passengers.
A multi-center study led by Fox Chase Cancer Center oncologist aims to develop an interactive internet-based tool to assess patient values and information needs, providing education on cancer treatment and communication skills training. The goal is to improve doctor-patient communication and patient satisfaction.
A new report warns that the US air transportation system is in peril due to a lack of coordination among stakeholders. The report calls for a focused national leadership and strategic vision to enable the airline industry to meet increasing travel demand.