The University of Miami School of Nursing and Health Studies has been awarded a competitive 5-year NIH/NIMHD grant to educate diverse scientific workforce. The program provides health disparities research training experiences in six countries, with the ultimate goal of creating a culturally competent healthcare workforce.
The University of Miami has established a new center, CHARM, to study mental health disparities and curtail the local HIV/AIDS epidemic. The center aims to address behavioral factors that perpetuate the disease, particularly in poor and marginalized communities.
Researchers developed a new dose-response function to predict the probability of illness from low-dose exposures. This approach combines 'bottom-up' biologically-based modeling with 'top-down' statistical analyses, increasing efficiency in risk assessment.
Researchers have found a link between autism, serotonin levels and digestive issues in zebrafish. By replicating a mutation in the SHANK3 gene, they discovered a drastic reduction in serotonin-producing cells, which may lead to treatments for gastrointestinal symptoms.
A study led by University of Miami biologists found that tropical trees in the Andes are migrating to higher, cooler elevations to escape warming temperatures. However, this migration is not happening quickly enough to avoid biodiversity loss, functional collapse, or extinction.
A recent study published in Biotropica investigates collaboration among scientists in tropical ecology, revealing an increase in international collaboration and representation of tropically-based scientists. The study analyzed years' worth of articles to look for changes in author affiliations and found that more scientists from tropic...
A new study from the University of Miami Business School and the University of Western Australia found that discriminating against workers with tattoos puts hiring managers at a disadvantage. The study surveyed over 2,000 subjects and found that visible tattoos are not linked to individual employment, wages, or earnings discrimination.
A recent study by University of Miami psychologists found that vulnerable children benefit from interactions with their peers and teachers to develop literacy skills and social-emotional growth. The research reveals the significance of back-and-forth conversations between teachers and children in language development.
A study found that women with a bachelor's degree and men who knew someone at high risk for the virus were more likely to have knowledge or concerns about Zika. Targeted prevention interventions by gender and education level can effectively educate the public.
A seven-year study published in The Lancet found that robotic surgery and open surgery are equally effective in treating bladder cancer, with no differences in complication rates. The study also showed lower blood loss and hospital stays for patients who received minimally invasive surgery.
A study by University of Miami Professor Daniel Messinger and colleagues found that eye wrinkles around the eyes, known as the Duchenne marker, convey more intense and sincere emotions across multiple facial expressions. Participants rated Duchenne smiles and sad expressions as more sincere and intense than non-Duchenne expressions.
Researchers compared ancient Peruvian trepanation outcomes to those during the American Civil War and found a significant difference in mortality rates. The study suggests ancient Peruvians may have prevented infection through unknown methods, leading to better survival rates over time.
Researchers found no relationship between a candidate's voice pitch and their leadership ability, contrary to previous findings that voters tend to favor lower-voiced candidates.
Researchers found that even small temperature increases can lead to near-total crop failure due to invasive pests. Farmers lack resources to adapt to climate change, putting millions of people at risk of food insecurity.
University of Miami Assistant Professor Elizabeth Simpson challenges a 2016 study that claims human babies do not imitate, citing flaws in methodology and presenting evidence of neonatal imitation. Her research suggests that imitation is a marker of healthy social development in infants.
A study by University of Miami researchers found that individuals with specific patterns of salience network dynamics were better able to resist tempting distractors and perform tasks. The study, published in Social Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience, sheds new light on the neural mechanisms underlying self-control and temptation res...
A probe invented at Rice University has identified a specific binding site on the amyloid beta peptide, which is suspected to cause Alzheimer's disease. This discovery could lead to the development of photodynamic therapy for Alzheimer's disease.
A new criterion for studying post-traumatic stress disorder in children has been developed, identifying those who need support services after a disaster. The study found that two-thirds of distressed children recover naturally over time, with factors such as social support and coping skills playing a key role.
A study reveals how individual-based modeling can help researchers predict the long-term effects of introduced herbivores on invasive species, such as melaleuca. The model suggests that introducing a native beetle can reduce melaleuca growth by 83% and its reproduction by 49% over 20 years.
A new study from the University of Miami finds that consumers often misapply mathematical equations to compare ratio values, leading to inaccurate purchasing decisions. The researchers suggest that providing easy-to-use ratio calculators or mobile apps could help consumers make more informed choices.
A recent University of Miami study found that mindfulness training benefits college football players' attention and well-being over high-demand intervals. The research, conducted by neuroscientist Amishi Jha, showed that greater practice engagement in a mindfulness program leads to more stable attention and fewer lapses.
A new study by Dr. Elizabeth Losin suggests that clinician-patient similarity and trust can significantly reduce pain during medical procedures. Patients who trusted their doctor and felt similar to them reported less pain, with those experiencing higher anxiety levels showing greater reductions in pain.
The University of Miami is conducting a multi-site study to evaluate the safety, effective dosage and prevention capabilities of the NIH's experimental DNA-based vaccine. Researchers will recruit individuals from Miami-Dade County and compare the rates of confirmed cases of Zika in vaccinated and placebo groups.
Researcher Neil Johnson studied sub-second delays in electronic stock exchange data, finding that natural delays already exist in these systems, which can become correlated and cause unexpected behaviors. Introducing more delays could be disastrous, as humans wouldn't be able to respond quickly enough.
Research from UM Frost School of Music found that infant-directed singing fosters a strong bond between mothers and infants. Engaging infants through song stimulates their attention, while also benefiting the mother by providing a distraction from negative emotions and thoughts associated with postpartum depression.
A study analyzing brain region connectivity found that people with more flexible brain states perform better on executive-function tasks. The researchers discovered five general brain patterns, with those in the most flexible states excelling in high-level cognition.
The Affordable Care Act has decreased the number of uninsured Americans and improved access to healthcare, but disparities persist. The ACA's impact on the U.S. healthcare system is marked by better access to a physician among all income groups.
Researchers used GIS mapping to identify areas with socially and medically vulnerable older adults in Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach counties. The study found that these populations often lack adequate access to healthcare services, highlighting the need for targeted interventions.
Researchers found that increasing mobility through a popular place can reduce outbreak severity, unlike reducing flow which would increase susceptibility to infection. The team proposes strategies to control the flow of people to minimize risk while maintaining high occupancy.
A study reveals that women are better connected within terrorist organizations than men, acting as a glue to fuel the network's vitality and survival. The researchers found high 'betweenness centrality' among female members, making them critical in passing on vital information.
A University of Miami research team created a mathematical model to investigate the role of sexual transmission in the spread and control of Zika. The study found that mosquito control remains the most important mitigation method, but sexual transmission increases the risk of infection and prolongs outbreaks.
Researchers analyzed online records of 196 pro-ISIS groups, finding they adapted and extended their longevity by adapting to shutdowns and inspiring lone wolves. By tracking these 'aggregates,' cyber police and law enforcement can monitor buildup and transitions before real-world attacks.
A study by University of Miami researchers found that Hispanic parents of children with autism exhibit stress-buffering qualities like optimism and use religious faith as a positive coping strategy. The team hopes to tailor clinical interventions to strengthen these personal characteristics and responses.
SPARK aims to advance our understanding of autism's causes by collecting DNA from 50,000 individuals with autism and their families. Researchers will study genetic mechanisms and environmental factors to develop new supports and treatments.
UM College of Arts & Sciences psychology researchers found associations between specific dopamine genes and initiating joint attention in high-risk siblings. Early levels of joint attention have been linked to later ASD symptoms, suggesting that dopamine genes may help explain differences in early communication.
A nationwide study found that a web-based program improved relationship satisfaction and reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety in 300 couples. The program, developed by University of Miami psychologists, was completed online with minimal calls with project staff, offering an affordable alternative to traditional counseling.
Researchers at the University of Miami studied dynamic functional network connectivity in the insular cortex, revealing unique and overlapping profiles of its subdivisions. The findings suggest that changes in connection patterns between brain areas may contribute to the region's flexibility in multiple cognitive processes.
Shark researchers support most available conservation policies, with a majority favoring sustainable fishing regulations. Many also prioritize environmental non-profit advocacy and believe there is no single policy to solve all shark conservation problems.
Research highlights the importance of interactive peer play in preschool for Latino children from low-income households, showcasing their strengths rather than deficits. The study found that these children displayed high levels of positive learning behaviors and social engagement during play.
A randomized trial shows that cognitive-behavioral stress management improves survival and lengthens time to recurrence in women diagnosed with breast cancer. Women who received stress management training experienced greater length of survival and longer time till disease recurrence over eight to 15 years after diagnosis.
A new treatment approach, CIT-S, combines family therapy with culturally-based practices to reduce caregiver burden and shame. The study found that CIT-S was effective in improving caregivers' quality of life and reducing psychiatric symptoms.
A Lancet study found that women contribute significantly to global healthcare, with an estimated $3 trillion added value, yet nearly half of this labor is unpaid, unrecognized, and unaccounted for.
A new study suggests that the universe was 'cooked' at just the right speeds to generate a rich and complex structure. The findings contradict the widespread belief that faster quantum phase transitions generate more structure.
Researchers from the University of Miami propose a 'diagonal approach' to manage health care, focusing on integrating services across the life span of a person. The approach suggests a need for legislation, access to cost-effective services, financial protection, and integration of services.
A new study reveals that iconicity is prevalent across the vocabulary of spoken languages, including English and Spanish. The researchers found that words learned in childhood are the most iconic, which helps children grasp the concept of a word. The study suggests that iconicity plays an important role in word learning and development.
A University of Miami research team proposes a four-component model of cognitive flexibility, which helps understand autism spectrum disorder and other behavioral/neurological disorders. The study may inform the development of new interventions to improve cognitive flexibility skills in individuals with autism.
A landmark paper recommends monitoring beach sand to safeguard human health. The study, based on data from beaches in the US, UK, Portugal, and other countries, identifies key indicators and methods to assess public health risks from pathogens in the sand.
The University of Miami study reveals that the KLF/SP gene family expanded and diversified during animal evolution through domain shuffling, gene duplication, and de novo domain evolution. This 'tinkering' process led to an increase in repressor domains, which may have contributed to the development of complex cell types and tissues.
Researchers found that candidates with lower-pitched voices generally win elections, particularly against female opponents. However, the preference for leaders with lower voices also correlates with perceptions of strength and competence.
A novel disease gene SLC25A46 has been identified as a cause of neurodegenerative conditions, including optic atrophy and Charcot-Marie-Tooth Type 2. The study reveals that mutations in this gene disrupt mitochondrial dynamics, leading to improper localization and increased interconnectedness.