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An optimal decision-making strategy emerges from non-stop learning

Researchers found that rats used an unexpected strategy of adapting their behavior based on previous trial outcomes, rather than relying on a fixed optimal rule. This strategy allowed them to quickly adjust to changing environments and learn from mistakes.

SourceChampalimaud Centre for the Unknown·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 2, 2020
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.

People more likely to accept nudges if they know how they work and how effective they are

A recent study from Queen Mary University of London and the University of Oxford found that people are more likely to accept nudges if they know how they work and how effective they are. The study involved over 1700 participants from the US and UK, who were presented with examples of genuine behavioral interventions used by policymakers.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalBehavioural Public Policy·DateMay 29, 2020

Yes, your dog wants to rescue you

A recent study by Arizona State University's Canine Science Collaboratory found that pet dogs will attempt to rescue their owners if they know how. Approximately one-third of the dogs in the experiment rescued their owners, suggesting that motivation alone is not enough, but rather a combination of understanding and ability are required.

SourceArizona State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 28, 2020

A clue as to why it's so hard to wake up on a cold winter's morning

A study of fruit fly sensory neurons has identified a 'thermometer' circuit that relays cold temperature information to the brain, inhibiting morning wakefulness. This finding sheds light on why humans struggle to wake up in winter and may have implications for understanding human sleep regulation.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMay 22, 2020

A clue as to why it's so hard to wake up on a cold winter's morning

Researchers have identified a 'thermometer' circuit in the fruit fly that relays information about external cold temperature to the brain, inhibiting neurons that promote activity and wakefulness. This discovery helps explain why humans struggle to wake up in the morning during winter.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMay 21, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Cooperation can be contagious particularly when people see the benefit for others

Researchers found that exposing people to prosocial models and modeling elicits subsequent helpful acts, driven by goal contagion. People are more motivated to help after witnessing others benefit from the model than when they themselves benefit. This framework can influence new prosocial behaviors amid the pandemic.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalPsychological Bulletin·DateMay 19, 2020

A lost world and extinct ecosystem

Researchers at Arizona State University have discovered the earliest evidence for symbolic behavior, complex pyrotechnology, and projectile weapons in South African archaeological sites. The study reveals that a vast plain, now submerged undersea, was a key foraging habitat for early modern humans during glacial phases.

SourceArizona State University·JournalQuaternary Science Reviews·DateMay 14, 2020
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.

How synaptic changes translate to behavior changes

Scientists discovered widespread synaptic changes in sea slugs that learn to reject non-food objects, offering insight into human learning's impact on the brain. The study found that synaptic modifications occur in concert across various brain areas.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateMay 4, 2020

Genetics of recessive inherited autism spectrum disorder

Research implicates ACTL6B gene absence in six families with recessive autism. Altered transcriptional repression and neural circuitry defects suggest conserved function and potential for autism research.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 20, 2020
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.

Biorobotics is the future of fish farming

A study published in Royal Society Open Science found that small and slowly moving robots can effectively monitor the behavior of salmon in fish farms without scaring them off. The results suggest that these robots can provide valuable insights into the state of the fish, including their health, parasites, and feeding habits.

SourceEstonian Research Council·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateApr 16, 2020

New UTA study finds people tune out facts and trust their guts in medical emergencies

A new study by University of Texas at Arlington researchers found that people tend to rely on personal anecdotes rather than facts during medical emergencies, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. This bias can lead to irrational decision-making and a lack of fact-based decision-making when individuals feel vulnerable.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalOrganizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes·DateApr 3, 2020

Research identifies regular climbing behavior in a human ancestor

A new study led by the University of Kent found evidence that human ancestors regularly climbed trees, based on analysis of fossil leg bones. This finding challenges previous assumptions about human evolution and suggests that a hominin species may have adopted highly flexed hip joints to facilitate climbing.

SourceUniversity of Kent·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 30, 2020
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Changing how we think about warm perception

Researchers at MDC found that mice detect warmth and cooling with the same acuity as humans, relying on a population of neurons increasing activity during warming. Blocking neural pathways associated with warming reveals perception is diminished but not gone.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalNeuron·DateMar 24, 2020

A new window into psychosis

A recent study in mice found that psychosis may be caused by problems with specialized nerve cells and learning behavior. The researchers hope this could provide insight into the emergence of delusions in patients with psychosis or schizophrenia.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature·DateMar 18, 2020
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

In-Sue Oh named SIOP Fellow

Dr. In-Sue Oh recognized for his significant research on personality assessment and meta-analysis, with over 7,000 citations and an h-index of 34.

SourceSociety for Industrial and Organizational Psychology·DateMar 17, 2020

Suzanne S. Masterson named SIOP fellow

Suzanne S. Masterson, former Journal of Organizational Behavior editor-in-chief, recognized by SIOP for her significant impact on the field through over 20 publications and 4,379 citations.

SourceSociety for Industrial and Organizational Psychology·DateMar 16, 2020

Christopher M. Barnes named SIOP Fellow

Dr. Christopher M. Barnes has been recognized by the Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology (SIOP) as a Fellow, acknowledged for his pioneering research on sleep deprivation and work. His notable contributions have been cited over 3,000 times, solidifying his impact on the field.

SourceSociety for Industrial and Organizational Psychology·DateMar 13, 2020

SIOP recognizes Ning Li for early career contributions

Ning Li has been recognized with the Distinguished Early Career Contributions-Science Award for his significant contributions to I-O psychology within seven years of receiving his PhD. His work on individual differences and team dynamics has garnered over 2,700 citations and an h-index of 19.

SourceSociety for Industrial and Organizational Psychology·DateMar 12, 2020

Paul R. Sackett recognized with SIOP's prestigious Dunnette Prize

Dr. Paul R. Sackett has made significant contributions to the knowledge of individual differences in cognitive ability, job knowledge, integrity, personality, and more, impacting various fields including education, military, and private organizations.

SourceSociety for Industrial and Organizational Psychology·DateMar 12, 2020
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.

Prosocial behavior and happiness

A study of 591 people reveals that prosocial choices initially increase happiness, but this effect is reversed after a month. The findings suggest that prosociality may not always lead to increased happiness.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 9, 2020

Evolution of sedentary behaviors

Researchers examined Hadza adults' activity patterns, finding they spent nearly 10 hours a day in nonambulatory postures similar to industrialized populations. However, Hadza adults spent more time in squatting and kneeling postures, which produce muscle activity, suggesting humans need daily muscle activity from both movement and resting

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 9, 2020

Squatting or kneeling may have health benefits

A new study suggests that squatting and kneeling may be important resting positions in human evolution, as they involve higher levels of muscle activity. This could reduce the health risks associated with sedentary behavior, particularly cardiovascular disease.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 9, 2020

Showing robots how to do your chores

Researchers at MIT developed a system called PUnS that lets robots plan and perform complex tasks like setting a dinner table under uncertain conditions. The system enables robots to weigh multiple requirements and choose the most likely action, based on a 'belief' about probable specifications for the task.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalIEEE Robotics and Automation Letters·DateMar 6, 2020
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.

The brain has two systems for thinking about others' thoughts

Researchers found that 4-year-olds can understand others' thoughts, but younger children can predict behavior based on surface-level cues. The brain has two distinct systems for perspective-taking, which mature at different ages.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 6, 2020

Mapping movement

Researchers have uncovered neural mechanisms that govern complex motor sequences in fruit flies, revealing the importance of spatial comparisons in decision-making. The findings could lend insight into pathologies such as Parkinson's Disease and obsessive-compulsive behaviors.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 5, 2020

Women deflated by #Fitspiration images

A recent study by Flinders University found that exposure to #fitspiration images increases negative mood and body dissatisfaction among young women. In contrast, exercise behavior was not significantly affected by viewing these images.

SourceFlinders University·JournalBody Image·DateMar 4, 2020

Tunnel fire safety

A new study assesses road tunnel fire safety mechanisms, finding that increased awareness and education can significantly reduce human life risks. The research highlights the importance of educating commuters on emergency protocols and evacuation procedures in response to a tunnel fire.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalASCE-ASME Journal of Risk and Uncertainty in Engineering Systems Part A Civil Engineering·DateMar 3, 2020
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.

Climate change: Modeling the problem, searching for solutions

Researchers unveiled new methods to decode climate system behavior, develop recyclable composites, and explore alternative energy sources. These advancements aim to improve climate predictions, provide cost-effective adaptation strategies, and promote sustainable practices.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·DateFeb 27, 2020

Connectedness to nature makes children happier

A new study published in Frontiers in Psychology found that connectedness to nature has a positive association with sustainability practices and behaviors in children, leading to higher levels of happiness. The study suggests that promoting exposure to nature can encourage pro-environmental behaviors and environmental care in younger g...

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateFeb 26, 2020

Researchers identify novel anti-aging targets

Conserved epigenetic regulators BAZ2B and EHMT1 identified as novel anti-aging targets in aging research. The study reveals a mechanism for regulating cognitive aging by reducing mitochondrial function.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature·DateFeb 26, 2020

Symbolic behavior in modern humans

Early symbolism in modern humans evolved to become easier to remember and replicate, as shown by experiments using engraved ochre and ostrich eggshell fragments. Participants more accurately recognized young patterns than old patterns, suggesting aesthetic intention behind the creations.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 17, 2020

Brief bursts, big insights

Researchers developed a new method to analyze short beta wave bursts in real-time, associated with rats' movements and behavior. The study shows that increasing the recurrence of these bursts can improve motion control and neuroprosthetics.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalCommunications Biology·DateFeb 14, 2020
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

State of mind: The end of personality as we know it

Researchers propose a holistic framework for understanding how the mind adapts to situations, suggesting that changing states of mind exert coordinated effects on perception, attention, and behavior. By acknowledging and manipulating these dynamic states, individuals can improve performance and achieve a healthier state of mind.

SourceBar-Ilan University·JournalTrends in Cognitive Sciences·DateFeb 13, 2020

Mice 'detectives' hint at how humans read between the lines

Scientists at Champalimaud Centre for the Unknown designed an experiment where mice had to infer water reward locations using indirect evidence. The study revealed key brain regions involved in inference and compared mouse performance to a human version of the task, highlighting the cognitive skill's importance.

SourceChampalimaud Centre for the Unknown·JournalNeuron·DateFeb 11, 2020
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.

Fruit flies respond to rapid changes in the visual environment

Researchers at Johannes Gutenberg University discovered a mechanism employed by fruit flies to broaden our understanding of visual perception. The team found that L3 neurons, sensitive to brightness, are active in low-light conditions and play a crucial role in detecting sudden changes in luminance.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalCurrent Biology·DateFeb 5, 2020

Excessive sports in case of eating disorders: Psychological mechanisms decoded

A study published in Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics found that individuals with eating disorders use exercise as a coping mechanism for depressive mood and negative thoughts. Exercise can temporarily improve their mood, but this effect is short-lived, leading to a vicious cycle of increased exercise.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalPsychotherapy and Psychosomatics·DateFeb 5, 2020

Researchers studying motivational aspects of mindfulness find quality differs by situation

A new study finds that mindfulness arises from the interaction between individuals and their situations, rather than being a stable psychological property. The research, which included over 558 participants, reveals three key motivational forces: metacognitive beliefs, mental fatigue, and situational appraisal.

SourceVirginia Commonwealth University·JournalOrganizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes·DateJan 29, 2020
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.

AI to help monitor behavior

A study published in Perspectives on Behavior Science found that AI models can accurately interpret behavioral data, outperforming a popular visual-aid tool. This could lead to better decision-making and tailored interventions for individuals with developmental disabilities, mental health issues or learning difficulties.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalPerspectives on Behavior Science·DateJan 27, 2020

How we learn is a quantum-like manner!

Researchers developed a quantum reinforcement learning framework to explain human decision-making behaviors, revealing a quantum-like neural mechanism. This breakthrough suggests that the human brain functions similarly to quantum systems, with potential implications for machine learning efficiency.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateJan 23, 2020

New dog, old tricks? Stray dogs can understand human cues

A new study reveals that untrained stray dogs can successfully follow pointing gestures to a specific location, indicating an innate understanding of complex gestures. The results suggest that dogs may have an innate ability to understand certain human cues, transcending training.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateJan 17, 2020
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Emotions to help engage school students in learning

A study of 537 Russian primary school students found that the emotional component of school engagement is the most important factor in motivating children to learn. The researchers adapted an international questionnaire and analyzed data, confirming the validity and reliability of the survey.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 15, 2020

What keeps couples together

Research on red titi monkeys reveals that female pair bond maintenance is driven by relationship management, while males provide useful services like offspring care and territory defense. The study supports the 'male-services hypothesis' suggesting females prioritize proximity to maintain relationships.

SourceDeutsches Primatenzentrum (DPZ)/German Primate Center·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateJan 14, 2020

The calm of the deer

A study found that lynx reintroduction in Europe led to changes in deer behavior, with humans influencing their day-night rhythm. Deer reduced daylight movements by 1.37 when faced with human disturbances, while the presence of lynx increased daytime activity.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·DateJan 8, 2020
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.

There is no 'I' in team -- or is there?

A study published in the Journal of Occupational and Organizational Psychology found that individual psychological ownership boosts personal engagement and creativity, but decreases collective effort. Conversely, collective ownership enhances team engagement, but not necessarily individual performance.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalJournal of Occupational and Organizational Psychology·DateDec 17, 2019

Underwater pile driving noise causes alarm responses in squid

Squid exhibit strong alarm behaviors when exposed to underwater pile driving noise, which can be associated with offshore wind farms. The study found that fast habituation may make squids more vulnerable to predation, while longer periods between pile driving activity may discourage long-term habituation.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalMarine Pollution Bulletin·DateDec 16, 2019

'Safety signals' may help slow down anxiety

Researchers at Yale University discovered that safety signals, such as symbols or sounds not associated with danger, can relieve anxiety. This approach differs from behavioral therapy and may be an effective way to augment current therapies for anxiety-related disorders.

SourceYale University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 9, 2019
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.