A massive global study of diverse populations has significantly advanced the understanding of type 2 diabetes by identifying 117 genes that contribute to the disease. The research used genetic data from almost 181,000 people with type 2 diabetes and 1.16 million without it.
Researchers at UMass Amherst have developed a new class of material called pZC that can withstand acidic stomach conditions and dissolve in the small intestine. This innovation could revolutionize oral medication delivery, increasing the number of medications that can be taken orally.
A new evidence-based matching program aims to improve treatment outcomes by pairing patients with therapists based on their previously established effectiveness strengths. The program, funded by PCORI, has shown promising results in reducing symptoms and improving patient care.
Researchers found that Massachusetts' state mandate driving staff acceptance and creating an atypical flexibility to seek innovative solutions. The program showed that medication diversion was uncommon, and protocols helped ensure correct use of the medication by detainees.
The UMass Amherst-based Forecast Hub has generated the most consistently accurate predictions of pandemic deaths at the state and national level. The ensemble model combined individual forecasts, demonstrating improved robustness and ability to overcome individual model biases.
A massive dataset reveals complex ecological relationships between sharks and game fish, offering a clearer understanding of their interactions. The study's innovative use of acoustic telemetry and machine learning helps inform fisheries management strategies to protect both species.
Research from UMass Amherst found that disbelief in human evolution is associated with higher levels of prejudice and racist attitudes. The study, conducted across 19 Eastern European countries, 25 Muslim countries, and Israel, linked low belief in evolution to biased attitudes towards outgroups and support for discriminatory behavior.
Researchers investigate how mushrooms improve gut health and provide a preventive buffer against disease in Western-style diets. The study aims to understand the role of Turicibacter in dietary obesity and gut health, as well as the potential benefits of incorporating oyster mushrooms into diet.
Researchers have provided a continuous look at the dramatic shift in glacial cycles, known as the Mid-Pleistocene Transition, using an ancient Arctic sedimentary record. The study reveals that three interglacial periods were warmer than previously thought, and there was a long-term drying trend during this period.
A team of researchers collaborated with small farmers in Egypt to identify the most nutritious and climate-adapted pumpkin varieties. The study found significant variation in nutritional value among different samples, allowing for accurate identification using genetic analysis.
A new study, led by UMass Amherst, found that drought, not colder temperatures, contributed to the demise of the Norse settlement in southern Greenland. The researchers analyzed sediment samples from a lake near a former farm and found a prolonged drying trend coincident with the settlement's collapse.
A new study led by UMass Amherst finds that human-caused erosion in the US Midwest has lost nearly double the average sustainable rate, with plowing identified as the major culprit. The team's research estimates that the region has lost approximately 57.6 billion metric tons of topsoil since farming began 160 years ago.
A new research study by the University of Massachusetts Amherst fundamentally changes our understanding of how salt marshes acquire sediment. The majority of sediments are delivered by the ocean during storms, reversing commonly held assumptions about the role of rivers in building and maintaining these ecosystems. This discovery has s...
A meta-analysis of 15 studies found that taking more daily steps helps lower the risk of premature death, with benefits seen in adults younger and older than 60. The study suggests that walking at least 6,000-8,000 steps per day for older adults and 8,000-10,000 steps per day for younger adults may be optimal for longevity.
A new study will measure the effectiveness of oral hygiene in preventing non-ventilator hospital-acquired pneumonia (NVHAP) among hospitalized patients. NVHAP is the most deadly and costly type of hospital-acquired infection, affecting approximately one in 100 hospitalized patients.
Researchers at UMass Amherst developed a new theory that allows for precise prediction of soft material failure. The breakthrough has major implications for polymer engineering and manufacturing, enabling the design of more efficient products.
A team of researchers has discovered that Naegleria employs three distinct tubulins during mitosis, which could lead to the development of new treatments for brain-eating infections. The study also sheds light on the fundamental rules governing life on earth and the diversity of life.
A study by UMass Amherst researchers reveals a negative correlation between birds' ability to fly and their willingness to fight. The findings suggest that developing wings instead of bony spurs was driven by both sexual and natural selection, leading to the remarkable diversity of bird species we see today.
Multiple system atrophy (MSA) is a fatal neurodegenerative movement disorder with no effective treatments, progressing rapidly and impairing critical physiological functions. The researchers will investigate how misfolded protein aggregates contribute to disease pathogenesis using the NIH grant.
Researchers at UMass Amherst identified a protective RNA mechanism that resists viral degradation, informing the development of anti-viral drugs. The study uses genome-wide sequencing and molecular biology to understand how viruses evade human immune systems.
A UMass Amherst researcher has received a $3 million grant to study the complex interplay of risk factors for autism, including early life exposure to environmental pollutants and genetic susceptibility. The study aims to better understand how multiple pollutants and the folate system are associated with autistic traits.
Scientists resolve decades-long debate on Antarctic Ice Sheet sensitivity, finding it vulnerable to small CO2 fluctuations. Research shows that large portions of the ice sheet could have disappeared under current CO2 levels.
Researchers at the University of Massachusetts Amherst developed a physical model that yields unprecedented high-resolution look at slip rates of faults, determining likelihood of earthquakes. The study reveals fault lines in kitchen sinks can predict earthquake-causing forces.
Researchers have created a new rubber-like solid substance with surprising qualities: it can absorb and release large quantities of energy. The material is programmable, thanks to its use of tiny magnets embedded in an elastic substance, enabling predictable phase transitions.
A UMass Amherst study found associations between oral contraceptive use and certain tubal ligation methods with lower levels of antimüllerian hormone (AMH), a biomarker for ovarian aging. This may suggest an increased risk for early menopause in women who have used oral contraceptives or undergone specific types of tubal ligation.
A team of researchers at UMass Amherst identified the specific genes responsible for growth suppression in maize flowers, including GRASSY TILLERS1 and RAMOSA3. These findings provide insights into the evolution of life on earth and have implications for plant breeding, benefiting humans from apples to corn.
Researchers at UMass Amherst developed a gear-shaped photonic crystal microring that increases light-matter interactions without sacrificing optical quality. The device boasts an optical quality factor 50 times better than previous records.
A new framework, the 'impact universe,' helps policymakers think holistically about the potential impacts of IoT systems and devices. This approach considers environmental, social, economic, and other factors to develop effective policy and societal controls.
A University of Massachusetts Amherst study found that vaccinated women transfer SARS-CoV-2 antibodies to their breastfed infants, potentially giving them passive immunity against the coronavirus. The research also showed a correlation between vaccine side effects and antibody levels in infant stool.
A University of Massachusetts Amherst analysis found that packaged beef burgers contain more calories, protein, and fat than imitation and veggie burgers. Veggie burgers, on the other hand, are lower in fat and higher in vitamin A and C.
A new study reveals that the Little Ice Age was triggered by an unusually warm episode in the late 1300s, with strong northward transfer of warm water and high solar activity contributing to the phenomenon. The researchers found that this warming event led to rapid arctic ice loss and subsequent cooling of North Atlantic waters.
A new NIH-funded study aims to test a program using a pharmacist-community health worker team to help patients with high blood pressure stay on track with their medication. The intervention addresses barriers to adherence, such as low health literacy and limited transportation access, through culturally relevant education and support.
A new smartwatch sensor uses machine learning to detect opioid cravings and provide personalized interventions, showing 80% accuracy in real-time monitoring. The technology has the potential to prevent relapse, overdose, and dependency.
Research reveals Arctic rivers are discharging much more water than previously thought, with acceleration up to three times higher than estimated. The RADR project assimilates satellite information into hydrologic models for the entire pan-Arctic region.
A new study uses a microspectroscopic technique to measure micro- and nano-sized plastics in steam-disinfected silicone-rubber baby bottle nipples. The research found that these fine particles can be released into the environment and ingested by babies, posing health risks.
Researchers at UMass Amherst found that anglers who experienced shark depredation were more likely to target sharks for harvesting, highlighting the need for human-centered conservation strategies. Over 77% of respondents reported having a fish taken by a shark at least once in the last five years.
A new study at UMass Amherst found that different psychotherapists use common treatment processes to varying benefits for patients. Personalizing clinical training to therapists' unique strengths and weaknesses may enhance training outcomes.
A new study from UMass Amherst suggests that changing land-use patterns in the greater Narragansett watershed can help mitigate the effects of climate change. The research found that expanding forest cover and investing in green infrastructure, such as rain gardens and living roofs, can reduce surface runoff and nutrient loading.
A recent study published in ISME Communications reveals that microbial community composition is key to forming and persisting soil organic matter (SOM), which acts as a significant carbon sink. Different microbial communities shape SOM's properties, including its ability to withstand warming temperatures.
Low-risk gamblers in Massachusetts reported the majority of gambling harms, confirming the 'prevention paradox' phenomenon. The study suggests targeting public health efforts towards primary prevention to reduce community harm.
A team of researchers at UMass Amherst has developed a method to count the number of strength-enabling entanglements in glassy polymers, which can be used to create stronger, more cost-effective materials. By combining computer simulations with experimental processes, they found that not every entanglement contributes to the polymer's ...
A new, bacteria-based system can detect cancer cells and release therapeutic drugs directly into them, leaving healthy cells intact. The technology has shown promising results in preclinical tests on mice, particularly for liver cancer.
Researchers aim to understand language development in children with developmental language disorder (DLD) and Fragile X syndrome by examining grammar skills and executive functions. The study will gather data on a two-year developmental window, providing comprehensive insights for families and potential improvements in communication.
Agricultural runoff from fertilizer is converted into nitrous oxide (N2O), a potent greenhouse gas, in rivers and streams. Researchers found that denitrification efficiency and streambed conditions significantly impact N2O emissions, offering potential avenues for reducing climate change.
A new study led by UMass Amherst nurse researcher Carrie-Ellen Briere investigates the benefits of using fresh breast milk versus stored breast milk for premature infants in the NICU. The research aims to prioritize the use of fresh milk in clinical practice and improve outcomes for vulnerable babies.
A new study by Manasvini Singh found that physicians are more likely to switch between vaginal and cesarean deliveries based on their previous patients' experiences, potentially leading to sub-optimal patient health. The study analyzed 86,000 electronic health records and found a significant increase in the probability of a cesarean de...
Researchers at UMass Amherst discovered that molecular chaperones display 'selective promiscuity', enabling them to play a crucial role in maintaining healthy cells. This property allows chaperones to help many different proteins, which is essential for cell health.
Scientists have made significant gains in understanding the Arctic's carbon cycle by studying the transfer of dissolved organic carbon from land to ocean via rivers. The research highlights the importance of this process in coastal foodwebs and the impacts of climate change on freshwater export and DOC loading.
The coastal Northeastern US is heating at a rate twice as fast as other regions, driven by rapid ocean warming and changes in atmospheric circulation. Significant summer warming along the coast is also occurring.
Researchers used Hubble and ALMA telescopes to detect distant galaxies with little to no cold gas, revealing why some massive galaxies stopped forming new stars. The team's findings rewrite the early history of the universe, shedding light on galaxy evolution.