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Frontiers


Study reveals most impactful neuroscience research

A study of 100 most-cited neuroscience articles reveals five top research topics: neurological disorders, prefrontal cortex, brain connectivity, brain mapping, and methodology studies. The study allows scientists to quickly identify impactful research in neuroscience.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Human Neuroscience·DateJul 21, 2017

A super-algae to save our seas

Researchers have made a breakthrough in genetically engineering microalgae found in corals to enhance their stress tolerance and prevent coral bleaching. This could be a game-changer for ocean productivity and global coral reef conservation.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateJul 20, 2017

Birds avoid crossing roads to prevent predation

A new study reveals birds are less likely to cross roads due to predation fears and territorial boundaries, with smaller forest-dependent species being the most affected. The findings highlight the need for measures to connect fragmented forests across roads, allowing wildlife to move freely.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and Evolution·DateJul 19, 2017

Heavy drinking during adolescence: Dire effects on the brain

Adolescent heavy drinking alters brain structures and function, resulting in reduced cognitive abilities. Research highlights the detrimental effects on memory, attention, language, and socio-emotional processing. The review emphasizes the importance of raising awareness about binge drinking risks and promoting future research.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateJul 18, 2017

Bacteria found in Alzheimer's brains

Researchers have discovered increased bacterial populations and specific bacteria differences in Alzheimer's brains compared to healthy brains. The findings suggest that bacterial infection and inflammation could play a role in the disease.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Aging Neuroscience·DateJul 17, 2017

Elderly yoginis have greater cortical thickness

Scientists found greater cortical thickness in elderly female yoga practitioners' brains, associated with improved cognitive functions like attention and memory. Long-term yoga practice appears to shape the brain structure and could offset age-related cognitive decline.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Aging Neuroscience·DateJul 13, 2017

Creating music by thought alone

Researchers have developed a hands-free musical instrument that can be controlled by thoughts, allowing people with motor disabilities to play music again. The Encephalophone collects brain signals and converts them into musical notes, providing a new avenue for rehabilitation and empowerment.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Human Neuroscience·DateJul 12, 2017

Data analysis in the kitchen

A study published in Frontiers analyzed traditional cuisines' flavor networks to develop a new principle behind cooking, called food-bridging. The research found regional clusters with distinct flavor patterns, and its mathematical representation, semi-metricity, may be applied to predict successful ingredient combinations.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in ICT·DateJul 12, 2017

Menstruation doesn't change how your brain works -- period

A new study published in Frontiers in Behavioral Neuroscience found that hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle have no impact on working memory, cognitive bias, or ability to pay attention. The study followed 68 women across two consecutive menstrual cycles and found no replicable effects of hormones on cognition.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Behavioral Neuroscience·DateJul 4, 2017

Immersive journalism in a post-truth world

The rise of immersive journalism poses challenges to traditional journalistic principles, as it offers a personal experience that can be subjective and relativistic. However, when used thoughtfully, immersion can enhance the narrative and create a powerful emotional impact.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Digital Humanities·DateJun 29, 2017

One step closer to a DNA vaccine against dengue virus

A recent study published in Frontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology has made significant progress in developing a DNA vaccine against the dengue virus. Researchers have successfully induced persistent humoral and cellular immune responses in mice, providing efficient protection against lethal challenge from one of the four ser...

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology·DateJun 29, 2017

Predicting eruptions using satellites and math

Researchers are developing a method to forecast volcanic eruptions by analyzing satellite measurements and ground deformation data. By applying data assimilation techniques, they aim to improve predictions of magma movement and pressure buildup beneath volcanoes.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Earth Science·DateJun 28, 2017

Is it okay for children to count on their fingers?

A recent study published in Frontiers in Education found that using fingers to count and play number games improved math test scores significantly. This challenges traditional teaching methods that discouraged finger use, instead suggesting that finger training could be a valuable tool for teachers.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Education·DateJun 23, 2017

Following a friend leads to unsafe driving behavior

A new study published in Frontiers in Psychology found that drivers who follow another car to a destination are more likely to drive dangerously. They drove faster, made more erratic turns, and followed closer to the car in front. The researchers recommend using a map or navigation device to avoid this behavior.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateJun 23, 2017

Stereotypes still affect females' career aspirations in STEM topics

A study found that even female students with good grades in STEM subjects are still corrupted by stereotypes, leading to lower self-confidence and perceptions of incompetence. Indirect support measures, such as positive experiences and role models, are more effective than direct encouragement in boosting their self-concept.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateJun 22, 2017

Video games can change your brain

Research has shown that playing video games can change the brain regions responsible for attention and visuospatial skills, making them more efficient. Additionally, studies have found evidence of increased brain activity in reward system regions associated with internet gaming disorder.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Human Neuroscience·DateJun 22, 2017

Screen time or story time?

A new study found that electronic books captivated toddlers' attention, encouraging more engagement and participation during reading sessions. Compared to traditional print books, toddlers showed higher levels of attention, engagement, and correct animal identification when reading electronic books.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateJun 21, 2017

Plant reveals anti-Alzheimer's compounds

Japanese scientists have developed a method to isolate and identify active compounds in plant medicines, which accurately accounts for drug behavior in the body. They identified several active compounds from Drynaria Rhizome that improve memory and reduce disease characteristics in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Pharmacology·DateJun 20, 2017

The story of music is the story of humans

A recent Frontiers article explores the origins of music and its significance in human society. The study reveals that music is closely tied to human emotions, bonding, and social cohesion, suggesting that it may have played a crucial role in shaping human culture.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Sociology·DateJun 20, 2017

No evidence of gender bias in philosophy

A recent study by Sean Allen-Hermanson found no significant evidence of gender bias against women in philosophy departments. Despite a male-dominated field, women secured tenure-track positions at rates comparable to men. Increasing diversity is crucial for the discipline.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateJun 20, 2017

Tennis cheats may be predicted by their moral standards

Researchers found a connection between certain moral values and the acceptance of cheating behavior in tennis matches. Players who prioritize ego and status over self-improvement tend to condone cheating. The study suggests that promoting personal success and achievement can help decrease the risk of antisocial behavior in sport.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateJun 20, 2017

How a girl is raised can influence her adult sporting success

A new study published in Frontiers in Psychology found that female footballers raised with non-traditional values and role models exhibit greater fighting spirit and pleasure in the game, leading to improved performance. This suggests that upbringing plays a significant role in shaping the desire to succeed in sports.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateJun 20, 2017

Treating autism by targeting the gut

Researchers found that restoring a healthy balance in gut bacteria can treat Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) symptoms. The review highlights several studies showing positive impacts of probiotics, prebiotics, diet changes and faecal matter transplants on ASD symptoms.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Cellular Neuroscience·DateJun 19, 2017

Take control to become a better parent

A new study published in Frontiers in Psychology found that a parent's outlook on life can have a profound influence on their child's behavior, eating, and sleeping patterns. Internally controlled parents tend to exhibit traits such as persistence, responsibility, and delayed gratification, which positively impact their children's deve...

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateMay 31, 2017

Sharing voluntarily makes young kids happy

A new study shows that preschool kids who share their own accord are happier than those who are obliged to do so. When given stickers, children aged 3-5 years old exhibited greater happiness when sharing voluntarily rather than being forced to do so.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateMay 31, 2017

Assessing and addressing the impact of childhood trauma

A growing body of research suggests that childhood trauma can increase the risk for psychosis in later life. Key factors include poor emotional control, limited coping skills, and stress sensitivity. Early identification and treatment through targeted training and protocols may help mitigate this vulnerability.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychiatry·DateMay 30, 2017

How self-regulation can help young people overcome setbacks

A recent study found that self-regulation skills are a significant predictor of resilience in young people at risk of social exclusion. Helping these students acquire self-regulation skills, such as setting goals and coping with adversity, can equip them to do better in school and life.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateMay 29, 2017

How listening to music in a group influences depression

New research published in Frontiers in Psychology found that group music listening can either exacerbate or alleviate depression, depending on the individual's coping style. Younger individuals with tendencies towards rumination are more susceptible to negative outcomes from group interactions.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateMay 24, 2017

Female STEM leaders more likely to back policies aiding women

A national study of college and university administrators has found that female department chairs, deans, and provosts have different attitudes and beliefs than their male counterparts about how to retain women professors in STEM fields. Female administrators gave higher ratings to policies and strategies designed to improve the lives ...

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateMay 22, 2017

There's more to attraction than what meets the eye

Research highlights the importance of non-visual factors like voice and scent in social perception, which can influence attractiveness. Studies have shown that people can accurately guess characteristics like gender, age, and body size from a voice or scent.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateMay 18, 2017

The dangers of money

Researchers found that banknotes harbor a diverse range of bacteria, including pathogens like E. coli and Vibrio cholera. The banknotes also contain higher amounts of antibiotic-resistance genes than other environmental samples, highlighting the potential for currency to pose a health risk.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateMay 17, 2017

Learning styles -- A once hot debate redshifts

A recent study of 114 academics in the UK found that while 58% believe Learning Styles is beneficial, only 33% use it. The study also revealed that most faculty consider the approach fundamentally flawed and prefer evidence-based techniques instead. Promoting these effective methods could be a more productive focus for education research.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateMay 11, 2017

How do toddlers learn best from touchscreens?

A study found that toddlers learn best from touchscreens through simple interactions like watching, with older children benefiting more. Researchers recommend app developers to tailor interactivity to individual needs, avoiding distractions.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateMay 8, 2017

One step closer to finding out how wine may protect your neurons

Researchers found that wine-derived human gut metabolites are protective against neuronal death in human cells under stress conditions. The exact composition of these metabolites depends on the individual's gut microbiota, highlighting the importance of personalized nutrition in preventing neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Nutrition·DateMay 3, 2017

Bioinspired agent kills drug-resistant bacteria

Researchers developed an antimicrobial treatment inspired by naturally-occurring peroxidase enzymes that rapidly kill drug-resistant bacteria. The treatment consists of iodo-thiocyanate complexes producing highly reactive anti-microbial substances without a peroxidase enzyme.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateMay 2, 2017

The courting cephalopods of the East China Sea

Researchers at National Tsing Hua University studied oval squid behavior in the East China Sea, discovering five common patterns of tone signals and movements used for communication. These patterns, compiled into an ethogram, will aid future behavioral studies in cephalopods and other species.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and Evolution·DateMay 2, 2017