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Brigham Young University


Research uncovers microsopic key to reducing ocean dead zones

Scientists at Brigham Young University have made a breakthrough in reducing ocean dead zones by studying the potential of rhizobia, a type of beneficial bacteria. By understanding how these bacteria interact with plants, researchers aim to develop more sustainable farming practices that minimize fertilizer use and reduce water pollution.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 22, 2015

Women and fragrances: Scents and sensitivity

A study published in Food Quality and Preference found that women tend to buy fragrances for men, suggesting a desire to influence their partner's scent preferences. In contrast, women are less likely to share or gift fragrances with other women, citing concerns about negative connotations.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalFood Quality and Preference·DateJul 16, 2015

Parents' comparisons make siblings different

A new study from Brigham Young University found that parents' beliefs about their children can influence sibling differences, particularly in academic achievement. The study discovered a significant difference in GPA among participants whose parents believed one child was smarter than the other.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalJournal of Family Psychology·DateJun 16, 2015

Late-night snacking: It it your brain's fault?

A study published in Brain Imaging and Behavior found that brain activity responding to high-calorie food images is lower at night compared to daytime. Researchers used MRI to measure neural responses to food images during morning and evening sessions, revealing a dip in reward-related brain reactivity in the evening.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalBrain Imaging and Behavior·DateMay 5, 2015

How to approach your boss about a treadmill desk

New research from Brigham Young University suggests treadmill desks can increase physical activity in the workplace without significantly impacting cognitive performance. The study found that walkers showed slight decreases in processing speed and attention, but retained their learning and performed well on non-cognitive tasks.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 21, 2015

Study provides academic support for new Steve Jobs portrayal

A recent study from Brigham Young University finds that leaders with a mix of narcissism and humility are more effective and engage their employees better. The research, which was published in the Journal of Applied Psychology, suggests that when leaders balance their self-confidence with humility, they can avoid the negative traits as...

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalJournal of Applied Psychology·DateMar 24, 2015

Prescription for living longer: Spend less time alone

A new study from Brigham Young University finds that loneliness and social isolation are major risk factors for mortality across all ages and income levels. The research analyzed data from over 3 million participants and found that the lack of social connections presents an added risk, while the existence of relationships provides a po...

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalPerspectives on Psychological Science·DateMar 11, 2015

Teen brain scans reveal a key to weight loss

Researchers found that teenagers who relied on executive function processes, particularly in the pre-frontal cortex, were more successful in losing weight. Successful programs involve repeated practice and ramping up challenges to executive control, such as computerized training and aerobic physical activity.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalObesity·DateFeb 17, 2015

We're all going to die; DNA strands on the end of our chromosomes hint when

Research finds a connection between telomere mutations and lung disease, with shorter telomeres indicating a greater chance for bone marrow failure, liver disease, skin disease, and other conditions. The study also highlights the importance of telomere research in understanding lung disease and its potential impact on future generations.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateFeb 6, 2015

Study: Eat school lunch after recess

A Brigham Young University study found that switching recess before lunch increases fruit and vegetable consumption in children by 54%. This simple, no-cost trick has the potential to improve long-term health effects and make school meal programs more successful.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalPreventive Medicine·DateJan 13, 2015

Using microscopic bugs to save the bees

Scientists at Brigham Young University have developed a natural treatment using phages to protect baby bees from American Foulbrood, a deadly disease that kills off larvae and leads to hive collapse. The researchers identified five phage candidates for honeybee treatment, providing a potential alternative to antibiotics.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalBMC Genomics·DateOct 27, 2014

Discovery may lead to lower doses of chemotherapy

Scientists at Brigham Young University have discovered two proteins that trigger autophagy in cancer cells, offering a potential therapeutic avenue for targeted treatment. The study's unique approach led to the identification of a protein pair responsible for switching on autophagy under stress conditions.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalMolecular and Cellular Biology·DateOct 8, 2014

Smart teens rub off on teammates

A new study at Brigham Young University found that high school students who participate in extracurricular activities with members who get good grades are more likely to attend college. The type of team or club doesn't matter, as long as the student is surrounded by peers with high GPAs.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalSocial Science Research·DateSep 16, 2014

'Moral victories' might spare you from losing again

Researchers analyzed NBA coaching decisions over two decades, finding that hasty adjustments following close losses backfire, resulting in extra losses per season. Coaches also underreact to close wins, particularly those with large margins, making it essential to consider all information when evaluating performance.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalManagement Science·DateJul 21, 2014

Head injuries can make children loners

A new study by Brigham Young University researchers has linked lingering brain injury from head trauma to social difficulties in children. The study found that the thickness of a specific brain region was associated with a child's social life and thinking skills.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalJournal of Head Trauma Rehabilitation·DateApr 10, 2014