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University of Cincinnati


Chemist targets pesky mosquitoes’ genes

Researchers at the University of Cincinnati found that female mosquitoes have a higher abundance of tRNA modifications than males, which could underlie factors associated with female reproduction. This study aims to develop new methods of control for mosquito-borne diseases, such as malaria and yellow fever.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalInsect Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 2022

UC study: Journalists might want to nix the term ‘storyteller’ from their bios

A recent University of Cincinnati study found that the term 'storyteller' attached to a journalist's bio diminishes public confidence in media. Participants on both sides of the political spectrum associated the term with biased reporting and decreased credibility. Researchers urge journalists to be more mindful of their online presence.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalJournal of Broadcasting & Electronic Media·DateFeb 9, 2022

New AI navigation prevents crashes

A new collision-avoidance system using explainable artificial intelligence enables robots to safely navigate and perform tasks in space. The system was tested in simulations and prototype design, showing promise for future applications in on-orbit servicing and assembly.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 18, 2022

Meet a colorful but colorblind spider

A team of scientists found that a specific species of jumping spider lacks the ability to see red colors, despite having vibrant red and black coloration. The study suggests that these colors may be used for defensive camouflage rather than mate attraction.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalThe Science of Nature·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 14, 2022

Unlocking the mysteries of the pecking order

This article discusses the 100-year-old concept of pecking order dominance hierarchies in animals, with researchers Elizabeth Hobson and Eli Strauss exploring its relevance to human behavior. The study highlights that dominance often relates to circumstance and opportunity rather than genetics or size.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 13, 2022

UC study: Mindfulness can get wandering thoughts back on track

A recent University of Cincinnati study investigated how mindfulness affects mind wandering and found that while it can be effective in reducing mind-wandering thoughts, the results differ depending on the research methodology. The study suggests using computer-based testing methods to measure mind wandering for more reliable findings.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalJournal of Cognitive Enhancement·TypeLiterature review·DateDec 15, 2021

UC research: ‘Tweens’ increased media use during the 2020 pandemic summer

A recent study by the University of Cincinnati found that tweens spent more time using media during the 2020 pandemic summer, highlighting the need to reassess notions of 'too much' screen time. The research suggests that media use can have both positive and negative effects on children's lives, with some finding connection with peers ...

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalPsychology of Popular Media·TypeSurvey·DateNov 30, 2021

A new approach to close the gap in lung cancer care

Researchers found offering surgery to current smokers can lead to more equitable care, reducing disparities in lung cancer outcomes. A new study published in The Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery shows that risk of complications and death following surgery is similar between current and former smokers.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalJournal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 29, 2021

Breaking down cancer’s defenses

Researchers engineered a probiotic designed to target and break down cancer cell defenses, allowing therapies to kill tumors more effectively. The new probiotic was tested in animal models of breast and colon cancer, showing promising results with improved survival rates.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalAdvanced Healthcare Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 19, 2021

Study examines adverse effects of obesity medications

A recent study analyzed over 18,000 reported adverse events from patients taking various anti-obesity medications. The study found that 4.9% of reported events were fatal, with 35% requiring hospitalization. Further research and monitoring are needed to address the safety concerns surrounding these medications.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalInternational Journal of Clinical Pharmacy·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 12, 2021

This robot doesn't need to knock

Researchers have developed an autonomous robot that can open its own doors and find nearby outlets to recharge. The innovation addresses a significant challenge in robotics, enabling helper robots to work independently without human assistance.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalIEEE Access·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 9, 2021

This squirrel watches its neighbor's back

Researchers found that Barbary ground squirrels in the Canary Islands rely on synchronized vigilance as their main defense mechanism against predators. They spend a significant amount of time watching each other and scanning their surroundings to detect threats.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·TypeObservational study·DateOct 29, 2021

UC professor provides insight on disaster preparedness

A study by University of Cincinnati professor Michael J. Fry found that a single large warehouse would be the most cost-efficient approach for disaster relief supplies, but a single location is vulnerable to destruction. The research suggests cooperation between government and relief organizations can improve response effectiveness.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalAnnals of Operations Research·DateOct 19, 2021

Carbon dioxide reactor makes Martian fuel

Engineers at the University of Cincinnati have developed a carbon dioxide reactor that can convert CO2 into methane, a potential fuel source for Mars. The process, known as the Sabatier reaction, could reduce fuel needs by half for astronauts returning to Earth, making it a promising solution for future Mars missions.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 23, 2021

Newly identified mosasaur was fish-hunting monster

Researchers at the University of Cincinnati have identified a new species of mosasaur, Ectenosaurus everhartorum, which lived 80 million years ago in western Kansas. The discovery marks only the second species in the genus Ectenosaurus and highlights the importance of continued research in the field.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalCanadian Journal of Earth Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateAug 27, 2021

These robots can move your couch

Student researchers at the University of Cincinnati developed artificial intelligence to train robots to work together to move a couch around obstacles and through a narrow door. The robots successfully completed the task 95% of the time in simulations, with nearly equal success without re-training.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalIntelligent Service Robotics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 24, 2021

Bats are kings of small talk in the air

Researchers found that bats can compress their echoes by up to 90% without losing essential information for sonar-based tasks. This efficient encoding strategy allows bats to navigate complex environments with minimal neural machinery, enabling them to detect location and movement with high accuracy.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateJul 16, 2021

Smart technology is not making us dumber

According to a recent paper in Nature Human Behaviour, smart technology is not dumbing us down. Instead, it's augmenting human cognitive abilities, allowing us to excel in complex tasks. By leveraging tools like GPS and computers, we can free up brain energy to think creatively.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateJul 2, 2021

Researchers hope a protein blueprint might aid infertility treatments

Scientists at the University of Cincinnati have developed a blueprint for the protein anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), which plays a crucial role in reproductive organ development. Understanding how AMH interacts with its signaling receptor may lead to novel treatments for infertility, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and even feral cat ...

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 22, 2021

Did the ancient Maya have parks?

Researchers found over 30 species of plants along the banks of Tikal's reservoirs, including trees like ramón and cabbage bark. The study suggests that the Maya protected these areas as sacred groves to provide medicinal or edible plants and fruits.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 22, 2021

Opiate overdoses linked to poor mental health

A national study by University of Cincinnati researchers has identified 25 geographic hot spots for fatal opioid overdoses and linked them to poor mental health. White males aged 25-29 are most at risk, followed by white males aged 30-34, with a correlation between fatal overdoses and mental distress increasing the relative risk by 39%

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 26, 2021

UC leads infant health study

Researchers and community members collaborate to develop a program promoting healthy eating habits in infants, addressing real barriers faced by families. The study aims to improve nutrition and behavior outcomes, with the goal of reducing obesity risk later in childhood and adulthood.

A new treatment for rare muscular disease

Researchers at the University of Cincinnati have developed a new treatment for Pompe disease, a genetic condition that affects 1 in 40,000 people in the US. The treatment has been shown to be safer and more effective than current therapy, improving respiratory muscle function, endurance, and overall quality of life.