A research team from the Cognitive Neurotechnology Unit and the Visual Perception and Cognition Laboratory, Department of Computer Science and Engineering at Toyohashi University of Technology, investigated human behavior and comfort when handing over a package to an autonomous mobile delivery robot while walking—an interaction envisioned for logistics in future smart cities. The results showed that people tend to feel more comfortable when the robot approaches them more closely, whereas they tend to feel discomfort when the robot stays farther away. This tendency was particularly pronounced when the package being carried was heavy. On the other hand, when the robot came close, participants often slowed down their walking speed and sometimes stopped momentarily, exhibiting brief hesitation. These findings suggest that humans may perceive robots as “helpful partners” rather than mere machines, and that appropriate approach distances and motion designs are essential for achieving comfortable human–robot collaboration. The study was published online in the International Journal of Social Robotics on October 20, 2025.

https://doi.org/10.1007/s12369-025-01329-z

A new study demonstrates for the first time that in tawny crazy ant societies, nest spatial structure is of primary importance in allowing social immune behaviors to prevent diseases from reaching the colony core, where the queen and brood live.

Studying brain patterns in soccer fans, researchers found that certain circuit regions of the brain were activated while viewing soccer matches involving their favorite team, triggering positive and negative emotions and behaviors, according to a new study. The researchers say these patterns could apply to other types of fanaticism as well, and that the circuits are forged early in life.

Abstract

Purpose – This study examines the relationships between herding behaviour, market overreaction and financial stability in developed and Brazil, Russia, India and China (BRICS) markets from 1 January 2017 to 31 December 2023. It identifies the significant differences in these phenomena across different market types and their implications for financial stability.

Design/methodology/approach – This study employs panel data regression, quantile regression, Granger causality tests and the Baron and Kenny mediation model to analyse the data. These methods are used to explore the extent to which herding behaviour exacerbates market overreaction and affects financial stability.

Findings – The results reveal that herding behaviour exacerbates short-term market overreaction, leading to increased financial instability, particularly in BRICS markets. In contrast, herding behaviour does not significantly impact intermediate-term overreactions in developed markets. The study also finds that market overreaction significantly mediates the relationship between herding behaviour and financial stability.

Practical implications – These findings have practical implications for policymakers. Understanding how herding behaviour and market overreaction impact financial stability can help formulate strategies to enhance market stability and mitigate systemic risks, particularly in more volatile BRICS markets. Social implications– Enhanced financial stability has broad social implications, including improved investor confidence and economic growth. Policymakers can use these insights to create more stable financial environments, which can lead to more robust economic development and reduced vulnerability to financial crises.

Originality/value – This study provides new insights into the differential impact of herding behaviour and market overreaction on financial stability in developed and BRICS markets. By confirming the mediating role of market overreaction, this study enhances our understanding of financial market anomalies and contributes to the literature on financial stability.