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Mother mongooses may risk death to protect unborn children

Research shows that pregnant mongooses reduce their levels of toxic metabolites to protect their offspring, but this comes at the cost of potential long-term harm to themselves. The study found that mothers with lower oxidative damage were more successful in reproducing and raising healthy pups.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and Evolution·DateJun 17, 2016

Antiphonal singing in indris

Indris sing in antiphony to synchronize their songs, which produces louder voices for territorial defense. Young indris prefer antiphonal singing to advertise fighting ability and signal individuality.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Neuroscience·DateJun 14, 2016

Children less likely to trust ugly people

A recent study published in Frontiers in Psychology found that children's perception of trustworthiness is linked to attractiveness, with more attractive faces being deemed trustworthy. The ability to make this judgment develops with age, becoming more consistent as children approach adulthood.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateJun 13, 2016

Witnesses can catch criminals by smell

Research published in Frontiers in Psychology found that people who witnessed a crime can identify criminals through their distinctive scent. Human nose-witnesses were able to correctly identify perpetrators in almost 70% of cases, showing promise for forensic applications.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateJun 9, 2016

You are not as anonymous as you think online

A recent study published in Frontiers in ICT found that a person's online browsing behavior can reveal their unique digital signature, which can identify them. The research suggests that personality traits can be deduced by general internet usage, offering new avenues for understanding online behavior and its applications.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in ICT·DateJun 7, 2016

De-coding the character of a hacker

A recent study published in Frontiers in Human Neuroscience found that individuals with a strong drive to understand and build systems, known as systemizing, tend to excel at hacking. This skillset is positively correlated with code-breaking performance, suggesting new opportunities for autistic individuals in security professions.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Human Neuroscience·DateJun 1, 2016

West African genes lower the risk of obesity in men, suggests study

African American men with high West African genetic ancestry have lower waist circumference and waist-hip ratio, indicating reduced central adiposity. In contrast, African American women do not show a similar association, suggesting that genes from West Africa may offer protection against obesity in men but not women.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Genetics·DateJun 1, 2016

Money really does matter in relationships

Researchers found that wealthy men prioritize physical attractiveness and engage in short-term mating, while committed women may adopt more consistent strategies due to reproductive costs. The study suggests evolutionary psychology principles influence mate selection across cultures.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateMay 24, 2016

Can legumes solve environmental issues?

A new study published in Frontiers in Plant Science found that introducing legumes into agricultural systems can reduce nitrous oxide emissions by 20-30% and fertilizer use by 25-40%. The study also shows increased gross margins in forage agriculture systems, demonstrating the potential for both environmental and economic benefits.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Plant Science·DateMay 23, 2016

Mind your busyness

A new study finds that busier lifestyles are associated with better processing speed, working memory, and episodic memory in older adults. The research suggests that busyness may stimulate learning and improve cognition, but more experimental work is needed to confirm this association.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Aging Neuroscience·DateMay 17, 2016

Another reason for wine lovers to toast resveratrol

Researchers found resveratrol supplements can help counteract the negative effects of a high fat/high sugar diet on hind leg muscles. The study, published in Frontiers in Physiology, showed that resveratrol supplementation helped maintain muscle function and fatigue resistance.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Physiology·DateMay 13, 2016

Using precision-genetics in pigs to beat cancer

Researchers are exploring genetically modified pigs as a valuable alternative to rodent models for cancer research, leveraging precision-genetics and genetic similarities between swine and humans. This approach could lead to more accurate modeling of the disease and identification of effective treatments.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Genetics·DateMay 13, 2016

Are Italians or Swedes more likely to cheat on their taxes?

A recent study published in Frontiers in Psychology found that Italians are more likely to 'fudge' slightly, whereas Swedes are more willing to pay taxes if they believe they get more value for their money. Despite national stereotypes, the results suggest that both countries contribute equally to the public good.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateMay 11, 2016

Study shows where you are is who you are

A recent study reveals that our environment shapes our self-hood by influencing spatial cognition, which in turn affects how we identify ourselves. This integration of space and self highlights the importance of well-designed environments for promoting well-being.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateMay 9, 2016

Does the moon affect our mood or actions?

Researchers studied 5812 children from five continents to determine if lunar phases affect sleep duration, with a significant 1% decrease in full moon nights. The study found no substantial impact on behavior, contrary to folklore and myths.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Pediatrics·DateMay 6, 2016

New treatment for children with ARDS

A new study published in Frontiers in Pediatrics investigated the effects of a steroid treatment on children with ARDS, finding improved ventilation and blood oxygenation without affecting mortality rates. The study identified key biomarkers associated with lung inflammation and injury, paving the way for targeted treatment development.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Pediatrics·DateMay 6, 2016

Turn up the heat to increase altitude tolerance

New research suggests that heat-based exercise is a more efficient means of improving altitude tolerance than normobaric altitude training. Heat-based training reduced physical strain and improved time-trial performance in cyclists, with similar effects on blood cells as low-oxygen training.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Physiology·DateMay 3, 2016

Consumers reveal barriers to brain-training app-iness

A recent study investigated consumer attitudes towards brain-training apps, finding that over two-thirds reported improved thinking, memory, and attention. However, cost was the primary barrier to their use, highlighting a need for evidence-based apps. Strong positive expectations about app effectiveness may also drive user behavior.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Human Neuroscience·DateApr 27, 2016

Decoding Zika to fight future outbreaks

The study details the transmission of Zika virus through mosquitoes and human-to-human contact, as well as its association with neurological disorders and birth defects. Researchers emphasize the need for antiviral agents and vaccines to combat the outbreak.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateApr 27, 2016

Study shows attitude makes a champion

A recent study found that elite athletes possess an internal drive and commitment to their sports, which enables them to overcome obstacles. In contrast, 'almost' great athletes lack this motivation and may avoid challenging training exercises. The study's results suggest that attitude is a key factor in determining success.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateApr 25, 2016

DNA proves mammoths mated beyond species boundaries

A new DNA analysis suggests that North American mammoths interbred more frequently than previously thought, blurring the lines between species. The study found that woolly and Columbian mammoths could produce fertile offspring, contradicting historical notions of separate species.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and Evolution·DateApr 21, 2016

Shark population threatened due to fin harvesting

A recent study highlights the need for sustainable shark conservation in Indonesia, where fin harvesting contributes to over 3 million shark deaths annually. Implementing no-fishing zones and providing alternative livelihood options can help protect shark populations and support local communities.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·DateApr 11, 2016

What really happened on Easter Island?

Recent research reveals that Easter Island's culture was affected by droughts and wet seasons, which influenced population dynamics and cultural exchange. Complete sedimentary samples show a continuous record of the last 3000 years, shedding light on the island's ecological and cultural development.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and Evolution·DateApr 7, 2016

Children's interactions more complex than predicted

Researchers studied kindergarten children's social exchanges to understand dynamics of complex interactions, finding evidence of non-traditional hierarchies and reciprocal pairings such as leadership/followship and aggression/submission. The study suggests people do not always behave in a hierarchical manner, with some 'leaders' showin...

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateApr 6, 2016

Gestures improve communication -- even with robots

Researchers found that robot avatars using multi-modal communication, combining speech and iconic hand gestures, are as easily understood as human actors. The study demonstrated that avatars can convey their message more effectively when using gestures with speech.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateApr 4, 2016

Study raises online golf tutorials to above par

A new study published in Frontiers in Psychology suggests that watching online tutorials with prior knowledge of the demonstrator's skill level can lead to improved performance. The researchers found that this approach enables students to better detect technical errors and imitate expert-level shots.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateApr 1, 2016

Study shows best way to reduce energy consumption

A new study by Wuhan University of Technology reveals the most efficient ways to conserve energy in homes, including opening windows during heating and using window shades in warm temperatures. The researchers recommend adjusting thermostat settings, adding solar panels, and turning off lights to reduce energy consumption.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Built Environment·DateMar 31, 2016

Imitating movements could help Alzheimer's patients

Researchers found that mimicking simple actions can aid recovery, with human trainers outperforming computer-based methods. The study suggests a potential tool for rehabilitation, providing insight into the ongoing ability of Alzheimer's patients to imitate movements.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Aging Neuroscience·DateMar 31, 2016

Re-energizing the aging brain

Researchers found that pyruvate increases brain energy reserves and improves cognitive function in mice, including enhanced exploratory behavior and spatial learning. The findings suggest potential therapeutic applications for Alzheimer's disease and other neurodegenerative disorders.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Aging Neuroscience·DateMar 16, 2016

Fifteen shades of photoreceptor in a butterfly's eye

Researchers found that Common Bluebottles have 15 photoreceptor classes, one for each wavelength of light, allowing them to distinguish millions of colors. This discovery reveals a unique system in butterfly vision, where four classes are used for routine color vision and eleven others detect specific stimuli.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and Evolution·DateMar 8, 2016

Linguists discover the best word order for giving directions

A study published in Frontiers in Psychology found that people are quicker to find a hard-to-see person in an image when the directions mention a prominent landmark first, as opposed to last. The researchers also discovered that listeners prefer to use these landmarks as 'mental bookmarks' to speed up the process.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateDec 9, 2015

Scientists date the origin of the cacao tree to 10 million years ago

New research suggests the cacao tree is 10 million years old, offering a chance for genetic variation to improve disease resistance and flavor diversity in the industry. This ancient origin provides a solution to the lack of genetic variation in cultivated cacao, making it vulnerable to pests and climate change.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and Evolution·DateNov 10, 2015

Oxytocin nose-drop brings marmoset partners closer

Researchers found that oxytocin-treated marmosets attracted more physical proximity and grooming from their long-term mates. The study suggests that oxytocin may increase the social attractiveness of treated individuals, which could be beneficial for people with social deficit disorders like autism spectrum disorder and social anxiety.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Behavioral Neuroscience·DateOct 14, 2015

Autism struck by surprise

A new study reveals that social and sensory overstimulation is the primary driver of autistic behaviors, contradicting decades-old views of autism as a mental retardation. The research proposes that autistic brains are hyper-functional, requiring predictable and structured environments to function optimally.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Neuroscience·DateJun 2, 2015

'Cleaner' protein protects against atherosclerosis

Researchers found that A1M stops the oxidation of blood fats and repairs damaged molecules, protecting against atherosclerosis. The protein can also clean and reduce oxidised blood fats from LDL and take care of dangerous substances from MPO.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Physiology·DateFeb 3, 2015

New restoration focus for western dry forests

A study suggests that dry forests in the western US are more threatened by insect outbreaks and droughts than wildfires. Historically, these forests had a mix of large and small trees, providing 'bet-hedging' insurance against multiple disturbances.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and Evolution·DateJan 14, 2015

Trust through the olfactory fragrance of lavender

Researchers found that exposure to lavender aroma significantly increased money transfer between test persons in a trust game. The study suggests that smelling lavender may help establish trusting negotiations and build team spirit in various situations.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateJan 13, 2015

Toolkit for ocean health

The future ocean will be warmer, with reduced ice extent, higher sea levels, more acidic, and lower oxygen levels. Research must focus on understanding marine systems' responses to cumulative pressures.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·DateNov 26, 2014