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Neonicotinoid causes ASD-like symptoms in chicks

Researchers found that neonicotinoid chemicals can impair the development of biological motion preference in chicks, similar to autism spectrum disorder in humans. The study suggests that transmission via nicotinic acetylcholine receptors is critical for this process.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalCerebral Cortex Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 17, 2022

Recent research analyzes complex criminal networks with new statistical tools

Researchers developed a new class of statistical models to group criminals with similar connectivity patterns, revealing nested and hierarchical structures in the 'Ndrangheta network. The models account for complex architectures and incorporate additional node information from investigations.

SourceBocconi University·JournalThe Annals of Applied Statistics·DateNov 14, 2022
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.

New study suggests evolutionary forces are behind collective discrimination

A new study published in Collective Intelligence journal suggests that evolutionary forces may be fueling collective tendencies to discriminate. The research recommends fostering environments where desired behavior emerges naturally through evolutionary dynamics rather than regulating against undesired outcomes.

SourceMIT Sloan School of Management·JournalCollective Intelligence·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 10, 2022

Memory and novel object tests for monitoring the cognitive decline of old dogs

Researchers at Eötvös Loránd University developed two tests to assess age-related memory performance and neophobia differences in dogs. The memory test found that older dogs make more mistakes before finding food, while the novel object test revealed an increased tendency to avoid new objects with age.

SourceEötvös Loránd University·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 9, 2022

"I'll pay later!" – People promise the stars and moon to charities, but donations remain unsent

A new study from the University of Copenhagen found that at least 60 percent of Danes who promised to donate never followed through on their commitments. Digital payment solutions made it easier for people to delay donations, but also led to larger average cash contributions. Social pressure was identified as a key driver of charity gi...

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalJournal of Economic Behavior & Organization·DateNov 8, 2022

Violence on TV: the effects can stretch from age 3 into the teens

A new study led by Linda Pagani found that watching violent TV during the preschool years can lead to later risks of psychological and academic impairment. Exposure to typical violent screen content at a critical time in brain development can predict later psychological distress and academic risks.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalJournal of Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics·TypeSurvey·DateNov 8, 2022

Reward for cooperative behavior

A study by Max-Planck Researchers found that individuals learn to use rewards specifically to promote good behavior when others also learn about them. The researchers used game theory to explain how reputation affects cooperation and rewarding policies.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateOct 28, 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.

Actors supress their sense of self when playing a new character

Researchers found that actors' brain activity suppressed when hearing their own name during performance, indicating potential impact of theatre training on human brain. The study also investigated interpersonal coordination between actors and found specific brain systems involved in social interactions.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalJournal of Cognitive Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 27, 2022

To be less sedentary, you may need a more active friend

A mathematical model suggests that social interactions between sedentary and moderately active people can stimulate higher levels of overall physical activity in a population. The model found that interacting with moderately active individuals helped sedentary populations become more physically active over time.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 19, 2022

Social media damages appearance satisfaction

A study published in Body Image found that social media use is associated with lower appearance satisfaction. Engaging with content from friends and family was found to have a significantly stronger negative impact on appearance satisfaction compared to celebrities or influencers.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalBody Image·DateOct 19, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Petting dogs engages the social brain, according to neuroimaging

Researchers found that petting real dogs activates the prefrontal cortex more than stuffed animals, with increased brain activity each time interaction occurs. This effect persists after the dog is gone, suggesting a long-lasting impact of social bonding.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 5, 2022

Mapping disease risk at human-wildlife ‘hotspots’

Researchers mapped the spread of pathogens in wild macaque populations near human settlements, finding that monkeys with high human interactions cause larger outbreaks. The study used computer simulations to predict disease transmission and identified key factors influencing outbreak size.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 3, 2022

Study outlines one way employers can head off ‘quiet quitting’

A recent study from North Carolina State University found that employees' relationships with coworkers significantly impact their sense of purpose and drive at work. The researchers discovered that employees who receive advice and support from their peers are more likely to feel a strong connection to the company.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalHuman Resource Management·TypeObservational study·DateSep 27, 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.

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

Who do you think you are? What does your avatar say about you?

A Trinity College Dublin study explores the intersection of identity, technology, and social dynamics in social virtual reality. Researchers found that avatars can represent intersecting characteristics, influencing users' social interactions and belonging to certain groups.

SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournalJournal of Digital Social Research·DateSep 21, 2022

Sharing a laugh: Scientists teach a robot when to have a sense of humor

Researchers at Kyoto University designed a shared-laughter AI system to build empathy into dialogue between robots and humans. The system was tested on the Japanese android Erica, performing better than baseline models in evaluating empathy, naturalness, and human-likeness.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Robotics and AI·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 15, 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.

An audiovisual journey with the MEMEX travelling exhibition

The MEMEX project promotes social cohesion by using AI and interactive tools to share community stories linked to cultural heritage. The exhibition features audio-visual stories from Lisbon, Barcelona, Paris, and Genoa participants who co-created their own digital content.

SourceIstituto Italiano di Tecnologia - IIT·DateSep 15, 2022

Study suggests COVID face masks don’t impair most social interaction

A new study published in Journal of Applied Social Psychology found that wearing a mask has no effect on the ease, authenticity, friendliness of conversations. Participants reported minimal difference in interactions between masked and unmasked individuals, suggesting masks do not impair most social interactions.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalJournal of Applied Social Psychology·DateSep 7, 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.

Using digital media to relax is related to lower-quality parenting

A multinational study found that caregivers who consume digital media for relaxation are more likely to engage in negative parenting practices. The researchers also discovered that maintaining social connections through digital channels is related to lower levels of anxiety and depression.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalComputers in Human Behavior·DateAug 24, 2022

Sleepless and selfish: Lack of sleep makes us less generous

A study by UC Berkeley researchers finds that a lack of sleep reduces the desire to help others, with real-world consequences. The study assessed brain activity in healthy volunteers and tracked online behavior over three nights, revealing a significant decrease in charitable giving after a night of no sleep.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 23, 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.

Dogs cry more when reunited with their owners

A study published in Current Biology found that dogs shed tears associated with positive emotions, such as reuniting with their owners, suggesting a stronger bond between humans and dogs. Oxytocin may play a role in this emotional response, with researchers also noting that people tend to respond more positively to teary-eyed dog faces.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 22, 2022

WVU researcher studies the effects of online ‘sharenting’ and the risks facing kids

A West Virginia University researcher highlights the risks of sharing children's information on social media, including consent and privacy issues, as well as increased vulnerability to online predators. The study suggests that parents should be aware of these risks and take steps to protect their children's digital footprint.

SourceWest Virginia University·JournalJournal of Consumer Affairs·DateAug 18, 2022

Social connection drives learning in bird brain

Scientists at OIST Graduate University discovered the neural circuitry that enables juvenile zebra finches to learn songs through social interaction with a tutor. The locus coeruleus-caudomedial nidopallium circuit plays a crucial role in attention and arousal, guiding the bird's focus on the tutor's song.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 16, 2022

Testosterone promotes 'cuddling,' not just aggression, animal study finds

A new animal study finds that testosterone can foster friendly, prosocial behavior in males, in addition to aggression. The hormone appears to help animals rapidly pivot between prosocial and antisocial responses as the social world changes.

SourceEmory University·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 11, 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
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.

Having a partner more important than children to staving off loneliness during pandemic, new study finds

A new study published in the European Journal of Ageing found that having a partner had a greater impact on reducing loneliness among older adults during the pandemic's first wave. Not having a partner was the most significant factor, with those without a partner experiencing a higher risk of moving into loneliness.

SourceUniversity of Rhode Island·JournalEuropean Journal of Ageing·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 3, 2022

Our social interactions begin at a young age

Researchers studied 31 children's social interactions with peers aged 2-4, finding they have more frequent and shorter interactions than great apes. Children learn quickly about coordinating behavior through exposure to multiple partners.

SourceNCCR Evolving Language (National Centre of Competence in Research)·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·DateJul 27, 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

Making sense of socially enhanced aggression in the brain

Scientists from the University of Tsukuba discovered that the lateral habenula brain region plays a crucial role in amplifying aggressive behavior in response to social interactions. Blocking this pathway eliminated increased aggression caused by social instigation, highlighting its significance in promoting aggressive arousal.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 22, 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.

Lonely old deers: Ageing red deer become less social as they grow older

A new study by researchers at the University of Oxford found that ageing female wild red deer on the Isle of Rum in Scotland tend to adopt a life of solitude as they grow older. They interact with fewer other individuals within their home ranges and shift to less populated areas of their habitat.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateJul 21, 2022

NTU Singapore study finds that increased use of videoconferencing apps during COVID-19 pandemic led to more fatigue among workers

A recent NTU Singapore study reveals that frequent use of videoconferencing platforms contributed to higher levels of fatigue among workers. The researchers found a significant link between increased videoconferencing usage and feelings of fatigue, with reliable internet connections unable to mitigate this effect.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalComputers in Human Behavior Reports·DateJul 14, 2022

A brain network for social attraction

Scientists at the Max Planck Institute have discovered a specialized neural circuit in zebrafish that enables recognition of conspecifics. This pathway, which runs from the retina to the thalamus, triggers shoaling behavior and regulates social approach and affiliation.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature·DateJul 14, 2022

Social development of infants unaffected by COVID-19 pandemic

Researchers at University of Zurich found that the presence of parents and caregivers mitigates pandemic's negative effects on social development in infants. Infants born during COVID-19 pandemic exhibit similar social behavior as same-aged infants before pandemic, with no significant behavioral differences detected.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalInfancy·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 13, 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.

Study shows social support key to quality sleep for people with multiple sclerosis

A study from the University of Kansas found that social support was crucial in predicting good sleep quality among individuals with multiple sclerosis. The research, conducted during the pandemic, revealed that tangible and positive social interaction support significantly predicted better sleep quality.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalMultiple Sclerosis and Related Disorders·TypeSurvey·DateJul 12, 2022

Friends enjoy being reached out to more than we think

Research by the American Psychological Association found that people significantly underestimate how much others will appreciate being reached out to. The study involved over 5,900 participants and explored the factors that affect appreciation for social connections.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 11, 2022

Social interactions tied to sense of purpose

Research from Washington University in St. Louis finds that positive social interactions are associated with a greater sense of purpose in older adults, particularly those who are retired. The study suggests that the quality of relationships and social connections play a significant role in shaping one's sense of purpose.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalAmerican Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 7, 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.

Bumblebees kept in isolation make up for it by being more social later

Researchers found that socially isolated bumblebees exhibited an increase in affiliative behavior, unlike expected aggression. The brain development of isolated bees showed similarities with group-reared bees, suggesting controlled chaos in the absence of social environment.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJul 6, 2022

Ethnic pride may help protect Latino college students from problem drinking

A new study suggests that developing culturally-sensitive interventions for Latino college students can help prevent problem drinking. The research found that ethnic pride was associated with significantly less drinking and alcohol-related consequences, while ethnic shame was linked to a higher likelihood of problem drinking. Familismo...

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Ethnicity in Substance Abuse·TypeObservational study·DateJul 5, 2022

How Facebook clickbait draws users into engaging with posts

Researchers analyzed 4,000 Facebook posts to understand how clickbait influences user engagement. They found that both headlines and text can 'bait' users into interacting with a post, with some techniques more successful than others.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateJun 29, 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
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Neuronal circuit serving social interaction

Researchers have identified a neural circuit responsible for detecting 'affective' touch and influencing social behavior in mice. Activation of this circuit triggers social bonding, while disruption leads to reduced social interaction.

SourceCNRS·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 29, 2022

Seat assignments drive friendships among elementary school children

A study by Florida Atlantic University psychologists found that classroom seat assignments have a significant impact on the formation of friendships among elementary school children. Students who were seated near each other were more likely to become friends, even after changes in seating arrangements were made.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·TypeObservational study·DateJun 28, 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
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

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

New studies shed light on election-related stress

Researchers found that anticipating future stress related to elections can affect people's emotional well-being before anything has happened. Education was shown to help protect individuals against these stresses, even for those actively engaged in the political process.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalCurrent Psychology·TypeObservational study·DateMay 31, 2022

Unselfish behavior has evolutionary reasons

Researchers find that cooperative breeding in animal societies increases survival chances of carers, leading to higher reproductive success. The study also reveals the relative importance of kin selection and individual selection varies depending on environmental conditions.

SourceUniversity of Bern·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 30, 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.

Family size may influence cognitive functioning in later life

A new study finds that having three or more children is negatively correlated with late-life cognition, with the effect strongest in Northern Europe. The researchers suggest that this may be due to financial stress and reduced social interaction, leading to potential cognitive deterioration.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalDemography·DateMay 12, 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.