A longitudinal study by BYU School of Family Life professor Laura Padilla-Walker found that adolescents who exhibited prosocial behavior towards strangers had higher self-esteem a year later. This suggests that helping others can have a significant impact on a teenager's moral identity and perceptions of self.
A team of researchers at Brigham Young University has identified a specific gene variant that protects people with high-risk genetic factors from developing Alzheimer's disease. The study reveals that this genetic function could be targeted with drugs to reduce the risk of Alzheimer's.
A study by Brigham Young University researchers found that 90% of users reported increased motivation and confidence using mental and emotional health apps. The app-based interventions promote behavior change and can be an inexpensive way to increase self-efficacy for mental health.
A study by Brigham Young University researchers found that lower speed limits were linked to higher rates of accidents, contrary to expectations. Increasing shoulder width and using concrete barriers were also associated with a decrease in crash risk.
A new study by Alex Jensen reveals that younger siblings experience a stronger impact from family favoritism compared to older siblings. The research found that when children perceive favoritism, their relationship with parents is strengthened if they feel like the favorite and the parents agree, but weakened if they don't.
Researchers found that using violent language in politics excites one's base but polarizes others, with a 20% increase in polarization. The study suggests micro-targeting and careful language use can help reduce polarization and promote unity.
A BYU study with mice reveals stress can alter gut microbiota to resemble a high-fat diet, potentially contributing to gender-specific health disparities. Researchers found distinct changes in female mice's digestive microorganisms upon exposure to stress.
A study by BYU linguistics professor Alan Manning and the University of South Alabama's Nicole Amare found that most people value clarity and directness over extended buffers when delivering bad news. Participants ranked directness as a top characteristic they valued most in receiving bad news.
Researchers at Brigham Young University have developed a nano composite smartfoam that measures the impact of hits via electrical signals, collecting data in real time to determine impact severity and location. The technology has shown 90% accuracy in measuring concussion risks, revolutionizing football safety protocols.
By leveraging Wikipedia's vast language database, researchers created a method to equip artificial intelligence agents with common-sense knowledge about object interactions. The team achieved promising results in text-based adventure games, improving the agent's performance on 12 out of 16 games.
Researchers used high-speed photography to study the formation of small bubbles in liquids, which can cause destructive shockwaves and potentially lead to brain trauma. The team developed an alternative formula to predict when cavitation will occur, with potential applications for athletic safety devices and military blast protection.
A recent study published in the Journal of Health Communication found that illustrations are more effective than photos in helping people spot problematic moles during skin self-examinations. The research uses eye-tracking technology to show that participants fixate on atypical moles longer with illustrated visuals, leading to increase...
Researchers at Brigham Young University have developed a miniaturized mass spectrometer capable of analyzing chemicals with high sensitivity. This portable device has significant implications for applications such as detecting chemical weapons, explosives in airports, and forensic investigations.
Researchers discovered that epicatechin monomers in cocoa enhance beta cells' ability to secrete insulin, improving blood glucose control. The study suggests these compounds could potentially delay or prevent type 2 diabetes onset in patients.
Researchers at Brigham Young University have successfully 3D printed microfluidic devices with flow channel cross sections as small as 18 micrometers by 20 micrometers. This breakthrough enables mass-producing medical diagnostic devices cheaply, using a custom printer and low-cost resin.
Most messaging app users neglect security options, exposing themselves to fraud and hacking. Authentication ceremonies are often overlooked despite encrypting messages by default.
A BYU research team has developed a machine learning approach to analyze grain boundaries in metals, enabling the prediction of material strength and corrosion resistance. By analyzing massive data sets, their algorithm provides insight into physical structures associated with specific mechanisms and properties.
A recent study found that 40% of new secondary science teachers teach mostly or entirely out of field, with 64% having at least one out-of-field course in their first five years. This can lead to constrained teaching and rote memorization rather than in-depth learning
Researchers at Brigham Young University identify four categories of Facebook users: those who use the platform to build relationships, share information with others, self-promote, and simply observe social media activity. The study sheds light on why people engage with Facebook in different ways.
New research finds that advertisements highlighting more proximal sensory experiences (touch/taste) lead to earlier purchases, while those emphasizing distal sensory experiences (sight/sound) delay them. This study, published in the Journal of Consumer Research, suggests new ways for marketers to differentiate their products and services.
Researchers from Brigham Young University discovered a significant link between high physical activity and longer telomeres, which can slow down cellular aging. Adults with highly active lifestyles have telomeres that are nine years younger than those who are sedentary or moderately active.
A new study by BYU social work professor Kevin Shafer finds that a father's depression can have a direct effect on both internalized and externalized behavioral problems in adolescents. In contrast to maternal depression, which affects children more subtly, a dad's depression impacts kids with heightened anger and aggression.
Researchers at Brigham Young University have developed a lab on a chip that can predict preterm births with up to 90% accuracy. The device takes a finger-prick's worth of blood and measures biomarkers associated with preterm birth, providing an early warning system for doctors.
Physicists at Brigham Young University have developed an acoustic technique called time reversal that uses targeted sound vibrations to knock over Lego figures. This technology has far-reaching implications for fields like private communication, targeted noise cancelation, and even medical treatments such as destroying kidney stones.
Brigham Young University researchers have created flexible glass membranes that can bend and flex at the nanoscale. These membranes will enable lab-on-a-chip devices to move small biological particles like proteins, viruses, and DNA, leading to more accurate and rapid disease diagnosis.
Researchers found that using honorifics incorrectly, but with a playful tone, can help foreigners connect with locals on a personal level. This approach challenges the idea that speaking correctly is always necessary for fitting in.
A Brigham Young University researcher found that exposure to good marketing boosts salad bar usage among teens. Students who live with parents serving healthy foods at home are also more likely to eat from salad bars in school.
A new study found that 20% of homeowners who could have benefited from refinancing didn't, resulting in thousands of dollars paid over the life of the loan. The researchers suggest that behaviors like inattention and procrastination are preventing people from taking advantage of long-term benefits.
A new study by BYU nursing professor Julie Valentine found that sexual assault kit submission rates in Utah improved significantly from 38 percent in 2010-2013 to 75 percent in 2014. The study analyzed 2,317 kits and showed notable improvements in various jurisdictions, with Washington County seeing the most significant increase.
Researchers found that reducing calorie consumption slows down ribosome production, giving cells extra time to repair themselves and maintaining overall bodily function. This study provides insights into the mechanisms of aging and may help inform decisions about diet and nutrition.
A new study published in Research in Autism Spectrum Disorders found an inverse correlation between brain stem volume and aggression in children with autism. The researchers discovered that a smaller brain stem is associated with greater aggression, suggesting a potential target for treatment.
BYU professor David Barney's research shows that playing music in P.E. class can significantly improve outcomes, making kids 5.87 times more likely to enjoy physical activity. Publicly picking teams, on the other hand, has a negative associative effect on children, leading to lower self-esteem and decreased confidence.
Research by Brigham Young University professor Sarah M. Coyne found that children who frequently engage with superhero culture are more likely to be physically and relationally aggressive. However, the study also suggests that parents can find a balance between allowing their kids to enjoy superheroes while promoting prosocial behavior.
Researchers identified three categories of selfie-takers: communicators who engage in conversation, autobiographers who record life events, and self-publicists who document their lives for positive presentation. This categorization contributes to the discussion on selfies and visual communication.
New research from Brigham Young University finds that running decreases pro-inflammatory molecules in the knee joint, reducing inflammation. The study suggests exercise can be a type of medicine for preventing osteoarthritis and delaying its onset.
A new study by Brigham Young University researchers may lead to a more accurate system for early detection, diagnosis, and treatment of prostate cancer. The computer model uses medical images to reproduce the growth patterns of prostate cancer on the anatomy of a patient's prostate.
A recent BYU study reveals that the amount of time between sunrise and sunset is the key factor in determining emotional distress. The research suggests that sunshine has a positive impact on mental health, while extreme temperatures, air pollution, and rain do not have a significant effect.
A 24-week behavioral study found that combining fitness apps with social support and accountability helps teens maintain weight loss. However, when smartphones were the only tool, teens lost initial weight but couldn't sustain it.
A recent study by Brigham Young University's Jessica Preece found that women are less likely to respond to recruitment efforts due to biased assumptions about help and support. Meanwhile, adjusting the tone of messages can increase women's political interest and participation. To address these disparities, parties must be cautious of b...
Researchers found that people are biased towards team members physically located with them, making it harder for remote workers to be seen as leaders. To avoid power struggles and communication issues, companies should ensure leaders are either physically located with the majority of the team or everyone is telecommuting.
Researchers at Brigham Young University found that software developers often interrupt users with security messages at inconvenient times, leading to a significant decrease in user engagement. The study suggests that displaying security warnings when users are not multitasking can substantially increase their security behavior.
Researchers at Brigham Young University studied the Emerald Ash Borer's eye structure to understand its color vision. They found that the beetle uses modified UV and green opsin genes to see in a way that other organisms cannot, allowing it to find mates and trees.
A recent study published in Developmental Psychology found that individuals who engage in problematic media, such as violent video games, gambling, or pornography, become more withdrawn over time. The research suggests that avoidant individuals are particularly at risk for negative outcomes, including depression and crime, when they co...
A recent study from Brigham Young University reveals that preschoolers exposed to Disney Princess culture are more susceptible to limiting female gender-stereotypical behavior, which can be detrimental in the long term. However, the study also suggests that princesses can provide a counterbalance to hyper-masculine media for boys.
Researchers found that Mormon communities' unique blend of education, mentorship, and economic support enables individuals with large families to achieve higher education levels. The study suggests that when community resources are in place, the traditional theory of resource dilution is mitigated.
Researchers found that consuming loud noises while eating can mask sound cues that naturally limit food intake, leading to increased consumption. The 'Crunch Effect' suggests being more aware of food sounds can help individuals eat less.
Researchers at Brigham Young University have developed origami-inspired engineering techniques to create ultra-small surgical instruments, allowing for minimally invasive procedures. The technology aims to reduce the size of incisions necessary for surgery, potentially enabling self-healing wounds without sutures.
Exercise scientists at BYU found that the immune system's T-cells infiltrate damaged muscle fibers, facilitating accelerated repair and reduced muscle soreness after repeated exercise bouts. This discovery challenges previous assumptions about inflammation and its role in exercise-induced muscle damage.
Researchers found that airlines focus on near misses linked to past accidents, but overlook those that haven't yet caused an incident. Airlines can improve by expanding data collection and vigilance towards deviations from normal procedures.
A national survey found that men rank getting help from friends and family as highly important for addressing depression symptoms, with a score of 7.7 on an importance scale. In contrast, women prefer professional counseling more highly. Experts emphasize the need to overcome barriers and promote trustworthy mental health resources.