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Indiana University


'Match' Madness: Picking upsets a losing strategy

Research from Indiana University and the University of Wyoming found that picking lower-seed winners is a good strategy, while upsets are no better than chance. Experts advise against relying on intuition or favorite colors, as this approach often leads to sabotaging efforts.

SourceIndiana University·JournalJournal of Applied Social Psychology·DateMar 4, 2010

Introns: A mystery renewed

Researchers studying the model organism Daphnia pulex found that introns are inserted into the genome far more frequently than predicted, with many sequences of unknown origin. The study identified 'hot spots' for intron insertion and discovered parallel intron gains in independent genotypes.

SourceIndiana University·JournalScience·DateDec 10, 2009

Designer molecule detects tiny amounts of cyanide, then glows

Researchers have developed a novel detector molecule that can sense cyanide in water at normal pH levels and emit light, offering a potential solution for protecting people from cyanide-laced drinking water. The molecule's modular structure allows it to be modified to enhance its sensitivity and detect different toxins.

SourceIndiana University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateOct 21, 2009

After dinosaurs, mammals rise but their genomes get smaller

A recent study found that only one group of mammals - humans, mice, and their close relatives - have seen their genomes decrease in size since the dinosaurs went extinct. This trend continues today, with human genomes undergoing a contraction, although noticeable changes won't be observed for several million years.

SourceIndiana University·JournalGenome Biology and Evolution·DateJul 27, 2009

Parasitic worms make sex worthwhile

Biologists discovered that parasites drive snails to reproduce sexually, increasing genetic diversity and resistance to infection. The study supports the Red Queen Hypothesis and Geographic Mosaic Theory, showing that host species can adapt to avoid parasite coevolution by producing genetically variable offspring.

SourceIndiana University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJul 23, 2009

Partner status influences women's interest in men

A study by Indiana University neuroscientist Heather Rupp found that women without sexual partners spent more time evaluating male photos, indicating a greater interest. The researchers suggest this may be due to women's relatively committed romantic relationships suppressing their attention to alternative partners.

SourceIndiana University·JournalHuman Nature·DateMay 28, 2009

JAMA study: Effectively managing pain with depression

Researchers developed a strategy to improve both depression and pain management by closely monitoring antidepressant therapy and providing pain self-management training. The study found that this approach led to substantial improvements in both conditions, with benefits lasting six months after treatment was completed.

SourceIndiana University·JournalJAMA·DateMay 26, 2009

Dogs, maybe not, but old genes can learn new tricks

Two ancient genes in beetles were found to be co-opted for a new trait, challenging the idea that fundamental genes cannot acquire new functions. The study also suggests that developmental genes are candidates for recruitment and may not be as constraining as previously thought.

SourceIndiana University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 11, 2009

Psyched out by stereotypes: IU research suggests thinking about the positive

A study by Indiana University researchers found that women who are aware of both a negative and positive stereotype related to performance identify more closely with the positive stereotype, improving their performance. The study demonstrated how the negative stereotype can encroach on working memory, but the positive stereotype had no...

SourceIndiana University·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateMay 4, 2009