Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Black employees more likely to experience depression after workplace mistreatment

A study by Indiana University Kelley School of Business found that Black employees are more likely to attribute workplace mistreatment to racial prejudice and make a pessimistic attribution. This leads to higher rates of depression compared to white employees. Organisations must create an inclusive workplace to reduce workplace mistrea...

SourceIndiana University·JournalJournal of Applied Psychology·TypeObservational study·DateAug 9, 2024

Does physical isolation increase loneliness?

A new study using COVID-19 lockdown data in Australia found that physical isolation made little difference to reported feelings of loneliness. Instead, the quality of social interactions and supportive networks were key factors in alleviating loneliness. Young people and extroverts showed increased loneliness during lockdowns.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalJournal of Economic Behavior & Organization·TypeSurvey·DateAug 8, 2024

People's moral values change with the seasons

A new UBC study reveals regular seasonal shifts in people's moral values, with stronger endorsement of group cohesion and conformity in spring and fall. This finding has potential implications for politics, law, and health, including the timing of elections and court cases, as well as public response to a health crisis.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 6, 2024
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

What happens to your brain when you drink with friends?

A UTEP study using fruit flies reveals that social settings enhance the stimulant effect of ethanol, linked to increased activity in the D1 dopamine receptor. This finding may lead to a better understanding of Alcohol Use Disorder and its vulnerability to social influences.

SourceUniversity of Texas at El Paso·JournalAddiction Biology·DateAug 6, 2024

Attitudes such as distrust of government can cause swine farmers to resist animal biosecurity: UVM study finds

A new University of Vermont study found that swine farmers' attitudes, particularly distrust of government, significantly impact their decision-making strategies regarding biosecurity. Farmers attending a single biosecurity education event improved farm biosecurity, even among those in the Biosecurity Skeptics group. The study also rev...

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalScientific Reports·TypeSurvey·DateAug 6, 2024

Dance, dance revolution: New Drexel research shows dance and movement therapy can increase emotional and social intelligence in middle school students

A new Drexel University study reveals that dance and movement therapy (DMT) can foster empathy, positive peer relationships, and cultural self-efficacy among middle school students. The program, developed by Nalini Prakash, aimed to address ethnic bullying and promote cross-cultural connections.

SourceDrexel University·JournalSocial Sciences & Humanities Open·DateAug 5, 2024

Most US voters agree on basic human values – so is polarization exaggerated?

A recent study by the Universities of Bath and Essex reveals that a vast majority of American voters share fundamental values, with only 5% of extreme voters holding differing views. The researchers suggest that highlighting similarities between Republicans and Democrats can increase hope about the future and inspire trust.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalSocial Psychological and Personality Science·TypeSurvey·DateJul 29, 2024
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.

The secrets behind Ukraine President Zelensky's appeal

A recent study by Prof. Meital Balmas Cohen found that highlighting Zelensky's warmth, morality, and communal traits boosts global empathy and pro-social behaviors towards Ukrainians. The research aimed to explore how national leaders can leverage their personality traits to influence public opinion.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalJournal of Conflict Resolution·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 25, 2024

Political campaigns can induce stress in minorities

A study by researchers at the University of Zurich found that LGBTIQ+ individuals and their cisgender heterosexual allies experienced higher stress levels during the 2021 Swiss national referendum on marriage equality. The campaign's negative impact was attenuated when individuals saw supportive statements from the 'yes' campaign.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeSurvey·DateJul 22, 2024

Analysing internal world models of humans, animals and AI

Scientists have developed a formalised view to systematically compare internal world models across species. This enables the analysis of human and animal world models and their application to improve artificial intelligence. The study also aims to better understand mental illnesses such as depression and schizophrenia.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalNeuron·DateJul 18, 2024

Pigs are social but only dogs are attached

A study by Eötvös Loránd University found that domestication and human socialization alone are insufficient to trigger a human-analog attachment bond in companion animals. Dogs displayed specific behaviors typical of the attachment bond, unlike pigs, which did not exhibit these behaviors.

SourceEötvös Loránd University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 9, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Study explores what motivates people to watch footage of disasters and extreme weather

Researchers analyzed live-streams of hurricanes and storms, finding that people in affected areas used streams to discuss official risk advice and show support to impacted regions. The study highlights the importance of understanding how new technologies influence hazard risk perception and community engagement.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalEnvironmental Hazards·TypeObservational study·DateJul 2, 2024

Prosocial influencers can promote societal cooperation

A modeling study suggests that prosocial behaviors can arise and be maintained in large societies through various mechanisms, including influencers who recruit neighbors to cooperate. The strategy produced similar results as strong leadership that prevents detected defectors from defecting again.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateJul 2, 2024

New study shows meaningful social interactions boost well-being, but context matters

A new study found that engaging in meaningful social interactions with peers is associated with lower loneliness and greater affective well-being. The research also highlights the importance of context in these interactions, suggesting that online or offline settings have a positive impact on well-being during lockdowns.

SourceSociety for Personality and Social Psychology·JournalSocial Psychological and Personality Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 28, 2024
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.

New research finds biases encoded in language across cultures and history

A new study finds that people's attitudes are deeply linked to language and culture, with associations matching large AI models' outputs. The researchers used data from over 100,000 Americans and 53 languages to understand how biases are transmitted through language.

SourceSociety for Personality and Social Psychology·JournalSocial Psychological and Personality Science·TypeContent analysis·DateJun 14, 2024

Ambivalence + polarized views can promote political violence

A new study suggests that ambivalence about a political issue can lead people with polarized views to compensate for their discomfort by supporting extreme actions. Researchers found that those with strong but conflicted views were more likely to support extreme actions, such as getting opponents fired from their jobs, than others.

SourceOhio State University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 12, 2024

Beauty is in the iris: bigger irises make people more attractive

A study by Zachary Estes and colleagues found that constricted pupils (smaller irises) enhance physical attractiveness by making eyes appear brighter. This contradicts previous research suggesting dilated pupils make people more attractive.

SourceCity St George’s, University of London·JournalCognition·TypeObservational study·DateJun 7, 2024
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Unravelling the gendered undertones of narcissism

Researchers found that men exhibit grandiose narcissism, while women display vulnerable narcissism, which is associated with a greater risk of perpetrating intimate partner violence and bullying. Vulnerable narcissism in women can also lead to subtle but significant harm.

SourceCity St George’s, University of London·JournalSex Roles·TypeObservational study·DateJun 6, 2024

Diverse friend groups promote better social cohesion and wellbeing - study

A study of over 24,000 people found that mixed social networks with diverse friends improve social cohesion and personal well-being. People with heterogeneous friend groups reported higher levels of social cohesion within their neighborhoods, closely associated with increased life satisfaction.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalPsychological Science·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 5, 2024

MSU research: What makes a good headline?

According to MSU research, linguistically simple headlines engage readers more than complex ones. The study found that simplicity impacts how often people click on stories, leading to increased demand for good journalism. By writing simply, news organizations can make their content more approachable and accessible to a wider audience.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 5, 2024

New study highlights risks of muscle-building supplement use among adolescents and young adults

A recent study from the University of Toronto analyzed data from 912 participants aged 16-30 and found that nearly 60% used protein bars and over half used whey protein powders. The study highlights alarming symptoms, including fatigue, digestive issues, and cardiovascular problems, with only 9.8% perceiving their use as problematic.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalPerformance Enhancement & Health·DateJun 3, 2024

Socially connected older people hit harder by pandemic than isolated peers

A new study by UCL researchers found that socially connected older people experienced a sharper drop in quality of life and life satisfaction during the pandemic. In contrast, more isolated adults experienced a greater decline in loneliness but similar levels of life satisfaction.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateJun 3, 2024
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

New study sheds light on the effects of humor in medical practices

A new study found that benevolent humour among medical assistants improves their job satisfaction and receives more positive feedback, while dark humour like sarcasm has negative effects. The study suggests using humour consciously and appropriately in patient interactions.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalBMC Primary Care·TypeSurvey·DateJun 3, 2024

Our political debates may not be as antagonistic as we think, study shows

A new study by University of California - Berkeley Haas School of Business researchers suggests that most political debates occur among family and friends, rather than with strangers on social media. Participants reported positive emotions after discussions, even on divisive topics.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley Haas School of Business·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 29, 2024
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

To combat loneliness, buy experiences, not things

A new study found that spending money on experiences, such as concerts, restaurants, or travel, increases feelings of social connection and similarity with others. In contrast, buying material goods has a lesser effect on these connections. The research suggests that this could lead to improved health and happiness.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalJournal of Behavioral Decision Making·DateMay 21, 2024

Perceived present duration in groups Is flexible and varying

The study found that the temporal binding window expands logarithmically with increasing group size, while remaining unaffected by group dynamics. Participants integrate clapping sounds to perceive simultaneity, adjusting their perception of time based on task involvement.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateMay 13, 2024

AI tool instantly assesses self-harm risk

A new assessment tool developed by researchers at Northwestern University predicts suicidal thoughts and behaviors with an average accuracy of 92%. The tool uses a simple picture-ranking task along with contextual variables to identify individuals at risk of self-harm.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Mental Health·DateMay 9, 2024

Largest quantitative synthesis to date reveals what predicts human behavior and how to change it

A review of meta-analyses found that interventions targeting individual determinants like habits, behavioral attitudes, and skills are more effective than those targeting knowledge, general attitudes, and beliefs. Social-structural determinants like social support and institutional policies also show promise in changing behavior.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalNature Reviews Psychology·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMay 3, 2024
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.

Warning from the scientific community: Beware of AI-based deception detection

Researchers caution that current AI-based deception detection methods are plagued by a lack of explainability, risk of biased results, and deficits in theoretical foundation. They emphasize the need for controlled laboratory experiments, large and diverse data sets, and validation on independent datasets to ensure accurate results.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalTrends in Cognitive Sciences·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMay 2, 2024

Does simple guesswork lead to more cooperation than complicated calculus?

A team of researchers from the University of Pennsylvania explored how Bayesian and abductive reasoning can be used to model social dynamics. They found that in some scenarios, simple guesswork can lead to more cooperation than complicated calculus, while in others it may result in less cooperation due to stricter judgment criteria.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 25, 2024

Escape the vapes: scientists call for global shift to curb consumer use of disposable technologies

Disposable vape sales quadrupled in the UK between 2022 and 2023, contributing to e-waste accumulation. The technology contains valuable resources like lithium, but recycling is often difficult due to lack of clear instructions. Experts call for urgent reform of disposable electronics practices to protect the environment.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalScience·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateApr 25, 2024
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.

Call for parents and youth sport coaches to get on the same page

Developing positive coach-parent relationships is crucial for maximizing psychosocial and developmental outcomes in youth sport. A new scoping review highlights the characteristics of effective and ineffective relationships, providing useful signposts for improvement.

SourceFlinders University·JournalInternational Review of Sport and Exercise Psychology·TypeLiterature review·DateApr 9, 2024

Promoting healthy movement behaviors in children under five in Europe

The SUNRISE European Study Group urges European countries to take specific actions to promote healthy movement behaviors in children under five years. Effective policies targeting upstream environmental influences are required to equitably change movement behaviors among European populations.

SourceUniversity of Seville·JournalThe Lancet Regional Health - Europe·DateApr 9, 2024

Study: Vanishing photos make dating app matches multiply

A Tulane University study found that ephemeral photos on dating apps can lead to better outcomes for users, increasing the number of matches and conversations. The research suggests that people are more willing to share personal info due to higher levels of privacy.

SourceTulane University·JournalInformation Systems Research·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 3, 2024
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.

Scientists’ urgent call: end destruction and forge a just, sustainable future

The study emphasizes the urgent need for a just and sustainable future, highlighting the interconnectedness of environmental degradation, climate change, and socio-economic inequality. The authors advocate for a global cultural shift that prioritizes kinship with nature and communal well-being to avoid devastating consequences.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalPNAS Nexus·TypeSystematic review·DateApr 2, 2024

Is your partner’s disturbed sleep keeping you up at night? Letting go of unattainable dreams may keep you both happy in bed

A new study found that individuals with a high capacity for goal disengagement can prevent worsening relationship satisfaction in couples experiencing sleep problems. By learning to let go of unattainable goals, partners can reallocate resources towards protecting and improving their relationship.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·TypeObservational study·DateMar 19, 2024
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

AI tools and parent support could be keys to unlock perfectionism

A new pilot study explores the effectiveness of an artificial intelligence-supplemented Cognitive Behaviour Therapy for Perfectionism (CBT-P) intervention for young people with anxiety and depression. The research suggests that AI tools could provide strong guidance through a therapy program, while parent support is also crucial in hel...

SourceFlinders University·JournalInternet Interventions·TypeCase study·DateMar 18, 2024
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.

Does trying to look younger reduce how much ageism older adults face?

A study reveals that feeling young appears to reduce ageism among older adults, but those who invest in appearance are more likely to experience negative outcomes. Those who feel younger score higher on positive age-related experiences and lower on negative ageism, while those who look older face increased negative ageism and poor health.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalPsychology and Aging·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 29, 2024

Live music emotionally moves us more than streamed music

A recent study conducted at the University of Zurich found that live performances stimulate a stronger emotional response in the brain compared to listening to recorded music. The researchers used magnetic resonance imaging to measure brain activity during both live and recorded music sessions, revealing a significant difference in amy...

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 26, 2024

Can’t stand gossip? New research suggests that gabbing about others is ‘not always a bad thing’

Gossiping provides a social benefit by disseminating information about people's reputations, helping recipients connect with cooperative individuals while avoiding selfish ones. This allows gossipers to gain an evolutionary advantage as their actions influence others' behavior and encourage cooperation.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 21, 2024

GW research explores how people make a snap judgment about unfamiliar dogs

A new study by George Washington University researchers found that people make instant judgments about unknown dogs based on their facial appearance. The study's lead author, Courtney Sexton, suggests that better understanding canine and human communication is crucial as these animals play increasingly important roles in society.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalHuman-Animal Interactions·DateFeb 21, 2024

Unlike men, for professional women, having high-status connections can backfire

Women with high-status contacts actually lose status, whereas men benefit from their networks. Researchers found that women who form ties with higher-status people are seen as dominant and subject to social penalties. Organizations can take steps to reframe network building activities to protect the status perception of women.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalOrganization Science·DateFeb 20, 2024
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.

Unravelling the genetic and environmental influences on trust

A new study found that genetic factors contribute around 33% to the variation in levels of trust among individuals, while life circumstances such as age, health, and relationship status also increase trust. The research used twin studies to disentangle genetic and environmental influences on trust.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalJournal of Economic Behavior & Organization·TypeSystematic review·DateFeb 20, 2024

Successful employer-driven disability initiatives benefit individuals and companies

Research in Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation reveals that companies with inclusive values and committed leadership teams experience improved performance and positive employee perceptions. Disability initiatives also foster a cohesive culture, valuing disabled employees as a vital part of the workforce.

SourceIOS Press·JournalJournal of Vocational Rehabilitation·TypeMeta-analysis·DateFeb 13, 2024

Mount Sinai study shows that circulating immune cells drawn to the brain during stress can control emotional behaviors

Researchers at Mount Sinai Hospital have discovered that circulating immune cells can be drawn to the brain during stress and alter emotional behavior. The study found that these immune cells release an enzyme called MMP8, which breaks down proteins in the brain and impairs social behavior.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNature·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 7, 2024

Jealousy – we understand our own sex best

A study by Norwegian University of Science and Technology reveals that men are more jealous of sexual infidelity, while women are more jealous of emotional infidelity. People surprisingly accurately perceive jealousy responses within their own sex but struggle to understand the opposite sex.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalEvolutionary Psychological Science·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 1, 2024
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Can practicing self-compassion help people achieve weight loss goals?

Researchers found that when participants had more self-compassionate responses to their lapse, they reported better mood and self-control over their eating and exercise behavior. Practicing self-compassion can help individuals become less demoralized by setbacks and quickly resume pursuing weight loss goals.

SourceDrexel University·JournalAppetite·DateJan 25, 2024