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How does social behavior lead to clusters of vaccine hesitancy?

Researchers created theoretical models to explain geographical clustering of vaccine hesitancy, attributing it to both social selection and social influence. The models found that these two processes independently generate clusters of high hesitancy, with social selection playing a key role when societies trust propaganda.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 13, 2022

Does mask-wearing affect behavior?

Researchers found that people wearing masks in China were less likely to engage in deviant behavior, such as running red lights or cheating for money. Mask-wearing was associated with increased moral awareness, leading some individuals to behave more ethically.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 3, 2022

Why do some kids take bigger risks than others?

A new study from Boston University's Social Development and Learning Lab reveals that children from lower socioeconomic backgrounds take bigger risks in certain situations due to their environment. The research, led by Professor Peter Blake, suggests that children are rationally choosing risk when it makes sense in their circumstances.

SourceBoston University·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateSep 30, 2022

Dog—human bonds could guide development of social robots

Researchers identified 7 core categories of behaviors important for human-dog bonds, including attunement, communication, and physical affection. These behaviors may be incorporated into robotic systems to provide mental health benefits for humans.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeSurvey·DateSep 28, 2022
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

CHOP's food allergy bravery clinic helps kids with food allergies overcome anxiety

A new study shows the first-of-its-kind program led to significant declines in anxiety for those with food allergies and improvements in quality of life. The Food Allergy Bravery (FAB) program provides individualized, cognitive behavioral treatment that encourages children to take small steps towards facing allergen-related fears.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalAnnals of Allergy Asthma & Immunology·DateSep 28, 2022

Life’s stresses can make people focus more on their romantic partner’s negative behavior

A new study found that individuals experiencing stressful life events are more likely to notice their spouse's negative behavior, such as breaking promises or showing anger. This shift in focus can have a toll on the relationship, even during the 'honeymoon' phase.

SourceSociety for Personality and Social Psychology·JournalSocial Psychological and Personality Science·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 26, 2022

Money can increase willingness to help – but only if empathy is low

A new study found that financial incentives enhance prosocial decisions in people with low empathy levels. However, this effect does not change the underlying motivation, which remains egoistic. In high empathic individuals, financial incentives have no impact on decision-making.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalSocial Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 21, 2022
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.

Support for art and other cultural objects can be strengthened by highlighting their collective value, finds new Rotman School research

New Rotman School research shows that emphasizing the historical and spiritual significance of artistic works can increase public support. By highlighting the collective value of art, people are more willing to protect it.

SourceUniversity of Toronto, Rotman School of Management·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 16, 2022

Novel analysis shows the experience of reward increases connectivity between the default mode network and other brain regions

Researchers found that experiencing reward enhances connectivity between the default mode network (DMN) and the ventral striatum. This effect was specific to the DMN and correlated with personality characteristics related to openness. The study used data from the Human Connectome Project, a database of healthy participants.

SourceKessler Foundation·JournalNeuroImage·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 16, 2022
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.

Walk then sit: A scientific recipe that helps babies stop crying

A new study published in Current Biology found that carrying crying infants for 5 minutes can promote sleep and reduce crying. The technique, known as the Transport Response, involves steady walking followed by sitting before laying the baby down to sleep. This method offers an immediate solution for parents of newborns struggling with...

SourceRIKEN·JournalCurrent Biology·DateSep 13, 2022

More stress, fewer coping resources for Latina mothers post-Trump

A study from UC San Diego finds increased depression, anxiety, and perceived stress in Latina mothers, particularly those in border cities, due to reduced coping resources. The researchers attribute these findings to the increasing hostility of the political climate towards Latinx Americans.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 12, 2022

Behavioral research: Study reveals that students aren’t ideal test subjects

A new study by Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg found that using only students in experiments can lead to biased results, as their decisions differ from those of other population groups. The study compared agricultural science students to farmers and found differences in risk-taking, patience, trust, and generosity.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalAustralian Journal of Agricultural and Resource Economics·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 12, 2022

Purpose beyond profit: how brands can benefit consumer well-being

Researchers explore the relationship between brand purpose and consumer eudaimonic well-being, finding that brands addressing key factors such as authenticity and commitment to purpose can secure positive outcomes. By incorporating purpose into their strategy, brands can foster a sense of fulfillment among consumers.

SourceSociety for Consumer Psychology·JournalJournal of Consumer Psychology·TypeNews article·DateSep 8, 2022
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

What makes us share posts on social media?

A new study by University of Pennsylvania researchers found that people share information that is meaningful to themselves or their friends and family. The study analyzed the behavior of over 3,000 individuals and discovered that sharing activates reward centers in the brain and is driven by social relevance.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalJournal of Experimental Psychology General·DateAug 25, 2022

Hiding chocolate stashes or Amazon purchases from a partner? ‘Guilty’ purchases may have benefits

Research finds that feelings of guilt from keeping everyday consumer behaviors a secret can lead to greater relationship investment. Participants reported engaging in mundane secrets like sneaking pizza or watching ahead on a TV show, which drove them to invest more in their relationships.

SourceIndiana University·JournalJournal of Consumer Psychology·TypeObservational study·DateAug 24, 2022

Getting less sleep makes people less likely to help others

Research found that sleep deprivation dampens activity in social cognition brain network and is associated with reduced altruism. A 10% drop in donation amounts was observed after losing an hour of sleep due to Daylight Saving Time.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeObservational study·DateAug 23, 2022

New pediatric investigation study explores how active parent participation can improve neonatal health and reduce parental stress

A new study explores how active parent participation can improve neonatal health and reduce parental stress. The study found that cultural attitudes, collaboration between medical staff and parents, and availability of equipment are key factors in enabling parent-infant closeness.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalPediatric Investigation·TypeSurvey·DateAug 18, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Early-term births associated with higher rate of ADHD as reported by teachers

A Rutgers study found that early-term births (37–38 weeks) have significantly higher symptoms of hyperactivity, ADHD, and cognitive problems or inattention compared to full-term births. Teachers' reports provided valuable input for the diagnosis of ADHD, highlighting the need for regular screenings.

SourceRutgers University·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 12, 2022

Study uncovers how blind and visually impaired individuals navigate social challenges

A recent study highlights uncomfortable social situations people with blindness face, as well as strategies they use to navigate them. Researchers found techniques for avoiding awkward encounters, recovering from them, and even constructive ways allies can support individuals with visual impairment.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Social and Personal Relationships·TypeObservational study·DateAug 9, 2022

For children struggling with extreme adversity, social support and community cohesion are keys to recovery

A Rutgers University study found that simultaneously focusing on kids, caregivers, and community members produces better outcomes than interventions targeting children in isolation. The study suggests that multilevel programs can strengthen mental and behavioral health of children affected by extreme adversity.

SourceRutgers University·JournalPediatric Clinics of North America·TypeObservational study·DateAug 8, 2022

Power, for all wins George R. Terry book award from the Academy of Management

The book 'Power, for All: How It Really Works and Why It’s Everyone’s Business' has received the Academy of Management's George R. Terry Book Award for its timely and democratized vision of power. The authors offer an essential guide to understanding and navigating power in relationships, organizations, and society.

SourceUniversity of Toronto, Rotman School of Management·DateAug 8, 2022

Losing spouse to COVID may be worse for mental health than other causes of death

A new study found that experiencing the death of a spouse due to COVID-19 may be worse for mental health than deaths from other causes. People who lost a spouse to COVID-19 were more likely to report symptoms of depression and loneliness. The study underscores the ongoing health risks posed by the pandemic, even to those who have not b...

SourcePenn State·TypeObservational study·DateJul 26, 2022
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.

How vaccine-related fears affect the flu shot experience

A novel study found that vaccine-related fears significantly impact flu shot outcomes, reducing vaccination rates and increasing symptoms of dizziness. Researchers recommend interventions to address fear and potential dizziness, such as applied muscle tension techniques.

SourceOhio State University·JournalApplied Psychology Health and Well-Being·TypeSurvey·DateJul 21, 2022

How ‘shark week’ could inspire love for ocean predators

A new study from North Carolina State University found that positive YouTube videos of sharks can increase human tolerance and support for shark conservation. The study showed a significant increase in attitudes, acceptance, and intentions to help sharks after watching positive videos compared to negative ones.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalAnimal Conservation·TypeSurvey·DateJul 21, 2022

Cooperation among strangers has increased since the 1950s

Research by American Psychological Association finds a small, gradual increase in cooperation across the US since the 1950s, linked to urbanization and societal wealth. The study's findings suggest that increased cooperation may help tackle global challenges such as pandemics, climate change, and immigrant crises.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalPsychological Bulletin·DateJul 18, 2022

Hunger really can make us feel ‘hangry’ – study

Research found that hunger is strongly associated with feelings of anger, irritability, and lower levels of pleasure. The study tracked participants' emotions and hunger levels over 21 days, finding a significant link between hunger and negative emotional states.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 6, 2022

How food anthropomorphism influences consumer behavior

Researchers found that consumers prefer to buy human-shaped food, such as gingerbread men, due to anthropomorphization. However, people do not like eating these products because it seems immoral, according to a study published in the Journal of Consumer Psychology.

SourceSociety for Consumer Psychology·JournalJournal of Consumer Psychology·TypeNews article·DateJul 2, 2022
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.

How secret consumer behaviors benefit close relationships

Researchers found that secret purchases can positively impact close relationships by driving investment and increased partner satisfaction. Marketers should ask consumers about their secret usage to better support it.

SourceSociety for Consumer Psychology·JournalJournal of Consumer Psychology·TypeNews article·DateJun 30, 2022

An engaging leadership style may boost employee engagement

A longitudinal study found that supervisors perceived as engaged leaders enhanced employee engagement via boosted personal psychological resources and team effectiveness. Engaged leaders also fostered a shared perception of available resources, leading to improved job performance.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeSurvey·DateJun 29, 2022

Default options facilitate faster carbon offsetting in air travel

Research shows that default options on carbon offsetting websites can lead to faster CO2 compensation, even at higher costs. The study found that as costs increase, the effectiveness of these defaults decreases. This suggests that people are price-sensitive when it comes to high-cost defaults.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalNature Human Behaviour·TypeObservational study·DateJun 23, 2022
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Rejected minorities turn to risky coping behaviors

A new study found a significant increase in unprotected sex, drinking, smoking, and cannabis use among rejected minorities. Researchers discovered that social rejection is associated with a 9.1% rise in tobacco consumption and a 12.5% increase in cannabis use.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalDrug and Alcohol Review·TypeSurvey·DateJun 23, 2022

Relationships are best between people of similar desirability, study finds

A new study from the University of Missouri found that Himba pastoralists in Namibia are more likely to form long-lasting relationships with others who share similar desirable traits. This suggests that people's actual preferences may differ from their stated desires, and that similarity in desirability is key to successful relationships.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalScience Advances·TypeSurvey·DateJun 21, 2022
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.

Workplace cyberbullying: Telework comes with new challenges

A recent study published in BMC Public Health found that younger age, managerial position, and frequency of teleworking are associated with cyberbullying victimization. Cyberbullying was linked to increased psychological distress, insomnia, and loneliness, emphasizing the need for effective countermeasures.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalBMC Public Health·DateJun 16, 2022

Red meat consumption may remain high in Finland despite consumer support for plant-based diets

A recent study found that while consumers in Finland express openness to shifting towards a plant-based diet, their purchasing trends reflect a strong preference for red meat. The researchers analyzed individualized purchase data of 29,437 customers and found that red & processed meat accounted for 63% of protein purchases, while plant...

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Sustainability and Transformation·TypeObservational study·DateJun 16, 2022

Keep your distance? Global study launched by Illinois Tech professors reveals the psychology behind effective social distancing messages

A massive global study of social distancing motivations has yielded new insights into the effectiveness of different styles of messaging. Autonomy-supportive messages that encouraged personal agency were found to be more effective in influencing individuals' behaviors than controlling or shaming messages.

SourceIllinois Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 14, 2022
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Keeping the faith – or your willingness to push yourself - as you grow older

A study of 1548 people aged 13 to 77 found that passion and growth mindset decrease with age, while grit increases, suggesting that older individuals can still develop new skills. Notably, women tend to have a stronger growth mindset than men.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 13, 2022

Women in space analogues demonstrate more sustainable leadership

A study by Inga Popovaitė suggests that women may be better suited for long-term space missions due to their positive and supportive leadership style. Women tend to focus on mutual support, motivation, and a positive environment, which can be beneficial in extreme situations where interpersonal conflicts can jeopardize team success.

SourceKaunas University of Technology·JournalActa Astronautica·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 10, 2022

Researchers sharpen Cupid’s aim on dating apps with new algorithm

Researchers developed an algorithm to improve matching efficiency, considering user preferences and behavior. The new algorithm shows improved results in field experiments, with at least 27% more matches than the current one.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalManufacturing & Service Operations Management·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 9, 2022

Are we born with a moral compass?

Researchers found that infants can punish antisocial behavior exhibited by a third party, indicating an intrinsic motivation for morality. The study's findings suggest that humans may have acquired behavioral tendencies toward moral behavior during evolution.

SourceOsaka University·JournalNature Human Behaviour·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 9, 2022

New study shows welfare prevents crime, quite dramatically

Researchers found that terminating Supplemental Security Income benefits at age 18 significantly increases criminal charges, with a 20% rise in income-generating crimes and a 60% increase in incarceration likelihood. The effect persists for more than two decades.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalThe Quarterly Journal of Economics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 7, 2022
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.

Graphic warnings on cigarette labels led smokers to hide packs

A randomized clinical trial found that smokers who received cigarette packs with graphic warning labels hid their packs 38% more often. However, when they returned to regular packs without the labels, hiding behavior returned to baseline levels. The study suggests that graphic warnings may not be effective in reducing smoking behavior.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 2, 2022

Children with same-sex parents are socially well-adjusted

A University of Cologne study finds that children with same-sex parents exhibit comparable social adjustment as those with opposite-sex parents, showcasing the resilience of same-sex families.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMay 20, 2022
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

NBA sees rise in acts of symbolic violence

A new analysis reveals a decline in physical violence and a rise in symbolic violence among NBA players. Symbolic violence is framed as harmless by commentators, contributing to its increasing prevalence.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateMay 18, 2022

If you stand like Superman or Wonder Woman, would you feel stronger?

A meta-analysis of 130 experiments involving 10,000 participants found a connection between upright postures and power posing with improved self-perception. However, the effects on behavior and hormone levels were less robust and not supported by the findings.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalPsychological Bulletin·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMay 16, 2022

Demographics, not bias, best predict traffic stops

Research from Washington University in St. Louis found that counties with a higher proportion of white residents have stronger anti-Black/pro-white attitudes, leading to larger disparities in traffic stops. The study suggests that racial demographics are a more reliable predictor of traffic stop discrepancies than racial biases.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalPsychological Science·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 13, 2022

Navigating machiavellianism in corporate alliance partnerships

Researchers examine the role of Machiavellianism in alliance partnerships, finding it harms performance by weakening collaborative learning and increasing power use. However, situational knowledge can mitigate these effects, and firms may benefit from partnering with a Machiavellian partner if they offer a good fit of capabilities.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateMay 12, 2022

Video games can help boost children’s intelligence

A Swedish study of over 9,000 children found that playing video games increased their intelligence by 2.5 IQ points compared to TV-watching or social media. The study controlled for genetic differences and socioeconomic background, suggesting a positive effect of video games on cognitive abilities.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 12, 2022
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.

An efficient single item instrument to measure self-control

Researchers developed a time-efficient single item measure to assess self-control, confirming its interchangeability with 'will-power' and 'self-discipline'. People with lower self-control also report boredom and lower socioeconomic status.

SourceThe Polish Association of Social Psychology·JournalSocial Psychological Bulletin·DateMay 11, 2022

People high in narcissism less likely to comply with COVID-19 mitigations

A new study found that individuals high in grandiose and vulnerable narcissism are less likely to wear masks or get vaccinated. However, those who do choose to participate may be more likely to encourage others to do so. Researchers suggest using unique messaging strategies to tap into these personalities.

SourcePenn State·JournalCurrent Psychology·TypeObservational study·DateMay 10, 2022

This kind of flirting works best

A study by Norwegian University of Science and Technology found that humour is an effective flirtation tactic for both sexes, especially for men seeking long-term relationships. Women who want a short-lived fling should signal their intentions clearly. The research also highlights the importance of smiling, eye contact, and showing pot...

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalEvolutionary Psychology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 5, 2022
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.

Studying wealth inequality in animals can reveal clues about how their societies evolved

A new framework for understanding animal societies emerges from a review of wealth inequality research in humans and animals. Wealth is found to be distributed equally or unequally across species, with material goods, individual attributes, and social connections being critical sources.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMay 3, 2022

Dopamine involved in recognizing emotions

Research suggests dopamine is involved in emotion recognition, particularly in low-dose individuals. Dopamine levels influence emotional perception, with lower levels improving emotional recognition while higher levels impairing it. This finding has implications for understanding social cognition impairments in neurological disorders.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·JournalJNeurosci·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 2, 2022