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Ohio State University


'Democratic peace' may not prevent international conflict

Researchers at Ohio State University challenge the widely-held theory that democracies are less likely to go to war with each other. Their new technique and model accurately predicted international conflict five and ten years in advance, outperforming existing models. The study highlights the importance of economic trade relationships ...

SourceOhio State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 3, 2015

Could flu someday be prevented without a vaccine?

Researchers have discovered a way to trigger a preventive response to flu infections by boosting the level of IFITM3 protein in cells, preventing cell infection. The method involves inhibiting NEDD4 enzyme, which degrades IFITM3, allowing for sustained production and enhanced resistance to flu viruses.

SourceOhio State University·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateAug 11, 2015

What's on the surface of a black hole?

Physicist Samir Mathur proposes that the surface of a black hole is not a fiery firewall but rather a benign copy machine creating an imperfect hologram. This idea counters the prevailing firewall theory and has significant implications for our understanding of the universe as a hologram.

When a sudden boost in status at work isn't all good

Researchers found that American employees who experienced a sudden boost in status due to a language mandate felt mixed emotions, including happiness and fear. They knew their status was not tied to their performance or achievement, leading to feelings of instability and lack of control. This study highlights the complex nature of stat...

SourceOhio State University·JournalAcademy of Management Journal·DateJun 16, 2015

In study, skipping meals is linked to abdominal weight gain

A new study by Ohio State University researchers suggests that skipping meals can lead to insulin resistance and increased abdominal fat gain in mice. Mice on restricted diets who fasted for extended periods developed metabolic issues, including inflammation and plumper fat cells, compared to those who ate regularly.

SourceOhio State University·JournalThe Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry·DateMay 19, 2015

Invasion of the earthworms, mapped and analyzed

Researchers use statistical analysis to predict the spread of invasive European earthworm species Dendrobaena octaedra into Canada's boreal forest, forecasting it will expand from 3% to 39% of the forest floor by 2056. The worms are entering the forest via roadways, altering soil pH and decomposition rates.

SourceOhio State University·JournalComputational Statistics & Data Analysis·DateApr 22, 2015

New design makes treadmill more like running outdoors

Researchers at Ohio State University have developed a new automated treadmill that uses sonar to change speeds automatically, mimicking the experience of running outdoors. The device provides an accurate measure of aerobic capacity and has been shown to improve VO2 max scores by 4-7% compared to standard treadmills.

SourceOhio State University·JournalMedicine & Science in Sports & Exercise·DateApr 14, 2015

One test can predict which kids will become nearsighted

A study of 4,500 US children over 20 years identifies a single test that can predict which kids will become nearsighted by the eighth grade: a measure of their current refractive error. The research counters the notion that near work causes myopia and confirms that eight risk factors increase the likelihood of developing myopia.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateApr 2, 2015

How the human immune system keeps TB at bay

Researchers developed a tissue culture model to study latent tuberculosis infection, finding that the human immune system generates an early response that protects against active disease. However, some bacteria can adapt and survive in these high-pressure environments, increasing the risk of reactivation.

SourceOhio State University·JournalmBio·DateMar 26, 2015

Persuasive power: Members of Congress can sway the public

A study by Ohio State University found that constituents who participated in online town halls with their representatives were more likely to agree with the legislator on important policy issues. These constituents also showed higher levels of trust and approval for their elected official, as well as increased voting intention.

SourceOhio State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 16, 2015

How parents may help create their own little narcissists

Researchers surveyed parents and children to identify factors leading to inflated views of self. Overvaluing parents were associated with higher levels of child narcissism, while parental warmth predicted children's self-esteem. Parental overvaluation was linked to narcissism even after accounting for the children's narcissism levels.

SourceOhio State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 9, 2015

Both liberals, conservatives can have science bias

A study by Ohio State University found that both liberals and conservatives exhibit biases against scientific facts that contradict their political beliefs. Liberals showed lower trust in science related to fracking and nuclear power, while conservatives reacted more strongly to climate change and evolution.

SourceOhio State University·JournalThe Annals of the American Academy of Political and Social Science·DateFeb 9, 2015

Confidence in government linked to willingness to vaccinate

A study by Ohio State University suggests that confidence in government is a key factor in public willingness to vaccinate. People with high trust in the government were more likely to take the swine flu vaccine, while those with low trust had lower vaccination rates. The research also found that individuals who watched more news and h...

SourceOhio State University·JournalHealth Promotion International·DateFeb 2, 2015