To solve pollinator health crisis, state governments are key, MU study finds
Researchers catalogued every pollinator protection policy enacted by US states between 2000-2017, finding 109 innovative solutions and just four federal bills
University of Missouri-Columbia
New precision medicine procedure fights cancer, advances treatment for pets and humans
Scientists at the University of Missouri developed a patient-specific vaccine to treat osteosarcoma in dogs, avoiding chemotherapy and improving survival rates. The treatment has shown promising results, with dogs receiving immunotherapy experiencing over 400 days of remission compared to 270 days for those receiving chemotherapy.
Defending against cyberattacks by giving attackers 'false hope'
MU researchers create an artificial intelligence system to quarantine cyberattackers, providing a temporary distraction to allow for a more sophisticated defensive strategy. This approach aims to exploit the psychological aspect of cyberattacks, making attackers believe their efforts are successful.
New theory unlocks the secret behind protein-membrane interactions
Researchers at MU developed a theoretical model showing multiple pathways for proteins to break free from cell membranes. The discovery provides insight into signaling pathways and cellular functions, paving the way for future studies on protein-membrane interactions.
Just like flipping a switch -- in only half a picosecond
Molecules can switch between magnetic and non-magnetic forms dynamically, enabling applications like efficient solar cells and quantum computing. The researchers found this process occurs in half a picosecond, far faster than initially believed.
Researchers overcome hurdle in CRISPR gene editing for muscular dystrophy
A research team has identified and overcome a barrier in CRISPR gene editing that may lay the foundation for sustained treatments using the technique. By increasing the quantity of 'flags' in CRISPR, they were able to extend the effectiveness of treatment from three months to 18 months in mice with Duchenne muscular dystrophy.
New measure of equality reveals a fuller picture of male well-being
A new measurement tool, BIGI, provides a simplified but more accurate picture of gender inequality, focusing on educational opportunities, healthy life expectancy, and overall life satisfaction. Men are on average more disadvantaged than women in 91 countries, while women have a relative disadvantage in 43 countries.
Today's children reach bone maturity earlier, study reveals
Researchers found children born in the 1990s are reaching skeletal maturity faster than those born in the 1930s. The 'new normal' for bone maturity timing directly impacts pediatric orthopaedic care for conditions like leg-length differences and scoliosis.
SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalClinical Orthopaedics and Related Research·DateDec 18, 2018
Rethinking school suspensions: School climate offers a clue
A study by University of Missouri researchers found that creating a positive school climate can reduce suspension rates by 10 percent. A positive climate features clear expectations, consistent discipline and supportive relationships between students and teachers.
Buzz! Slap! Ow! Taking the virus out of a mosquito's bite
Scientists visualized a real virus with a three-dimensional model to track its movement within a mosquito's body. The study found that the virus leaves the midgut within 32-48 hours, revealing a narrow window for prevention. Researchers aim to inhibit genes involved in virus release to prevent future transmission.
#BlackGirlMagic: Black women in STEM are driving forward -- educators need to catch up
A MU researcher shares tips on how educators can create inclusive learning environments for black women in STEM fields. She emphasizes the importance of diverse role models, community support, and challenging implicit biases.
Are you stressed? Your eyes may provide a window into your mental workload
Researchers at University of Missouri-Columbia have discovered that pupil size can indicate stress levels when multitasking. The study found a negative relationship between pupil dilation and workload, suggesting a potential tool for monitoring mental well-being in workers.
SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalInternational Journal of Human-Computer Interaction·DateDec 11, 2018
Media coverage of disasters can have lasting effects on children's mental health
Researchers found that disaster media coverage can have lasting effects on children's mental health, impacting not only in school but also in response to future disasters. Teachers and parents are often the first source of support for students affected by disasters.
New way to study swallowing could one day lead to improved treatments for ALS
Researchers have developed a rodent model that mimics human swallowing problems in ALS, allowing for targeted study of preserving and restoring swallowing function. The research could one day lead to new treatments to slow the disease and improve quality of life for individuals with ALS.
A buzz-worthy surprise during the total solar eclipse
During the 2017 total solar eclipse, researchers captured a surprising phenomenon: bees stopped buzzing as Earth fell into complete darkness. The study, led by Candace Galen at the University of Missouri, found that bees did not use the unusual darkness as a cue for night and instead flew during periods of reduced light.
SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalAnnals of the Entomological Society of America·DateNov 8, 2018
Cell behavior, once shrouded in mystery, is revealed in new light
University of Missouri researchers have developed a new microscope that allows them to observe individual proteins in an unfrozen sample. This breakthrough enables scientists to predict how cells will behave when new components are introduced, which could lead to the creation of more effective drugs with fewer side effects.
Financial education key to reducing student loan stress
A recent study by University of Missouri researcher Lu Fan found that nearly two-thirds of student loan borrowers lack adequate financial literacy to manage their debt. The study also revealed that women are more likely to feel anxious about their student loans, while men tend to be less concerned and more likely to miss payments.
Public opinion on GMOs might impact similar technologies in stores
Researchers found that people who believe GMOs are beneficial are less likely to support labeling of nano products, while those who distrust scientific authorities more favor labeling. The study aims to better inform shoppers' purchasing decisions and help businesses understand consumer views on emerging technologies.
Researchers at MU produce virus-resistant pigs, could vastly improve global animal health
Researchers at MU have successfully produced a litter of pigs genetically resistant to a deadly porcine virus by means of gene editing. The pigs lack the enzyme ANPEP, which is necessary for an infection, and were not infected when exposed to the TGEV virus.
MU, MIT researchers show effectiveness of new noninvasive blood glucose test
Researchers at MU and MIT developed a noninvasive technology to monitor blood glucose levels without needles or finger pricking. The device uses Raman spectroscopy to detect glucose molecules in the skin, achieving accuracy comparable to traditional finger prick tests.
SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalAnalytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry·DateOct 10, 2018
Social class determines how the unemployed talk about food insecurity
Researchers found that people from lower classes describe food as a means of survival, while those in the middle class use language to obscure their struggles. In contrast, those in the upper class view food as a networking tool, rarely considering its physical necessity.
BPA exposure in US-approved levels may alter insulin response in non-diabetic adults
Researchers found that low-dose BPA exposure can trigger an insulin response in humans, similar to animal studies showing insulin resistance. The study suggests that exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals like BPA may contribute to the development of Type 2 diabetes.
Majority of women receive breast cancer diagnosis over the phone
A new study from the University of Missouri School of Medicine reveals that more than half of women with breast cancer are now receiving their diagnosis over the phone. The researchers found a significant shift in diagnosis delivery method since 2007, when approximately 25 percent of patients learned about their diagnosis via phone.
Depressed children 6 times more likely to have skill deficits, MU study finds
Researchers at the University of Missouri found that depressed children are six times more likely to experience skill deficits, such as social skills or academics difficulties. Parents and teachers often fail to recognize depressed children, but can identify other symptoms like social problems or inattention.
On-again, off-again relationships might be toxic for mental health
A recent study found that on-again, off-again relationships are associated with higher rates of abuse, poorer communication, and lower levels of commitment. Researchers suggest that partners who regularly break up and get back together should re-examine their relationship dynamics to prioritize their well-being.
Mizzou program significantly reduces delay in autism diagnosis
A new study shows that a University of Missouri program significantly reduces diagnostic wait times for young children at highest risk for autism. The ECHO Autism program provides hands-on training, virtual discussions and practice to help primary care providers diagnose autism in young children, saving families an average of 172.7 mil...
SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of Autism and Developmental Disorders·DateAug 15, 2018
Students' social skills flourish best in groups with similar skill levels
Researchers at the University of Missouri-Columbia found that grouping children by similar social abilities, rather than disability or disorder, leads to better behavior outcomes. This approach allows peers to learn from and support each other in improving their social skills.
Researchers create specialized delivery methods to help treat cancer, other disorders
Scientists have created specialized delivery methods using nucleic acid-based nanostructures to target cancer cells while leaving normal cells intact. The new approach utilizes aptamers to bind to specific receptors on cancer cells, allowing for the targeted delivery of chemotherapeutic drugs.
Soy diets might increase women's bone strength
Researchers discovered that soy protein can counter negative effects of menopause on bone and metabolic health in postmenopausal women. Soy-based diets were found to improve bone strength and metabolic function for both rats with and without ovaries.
Certification standards, education critical for social workers in school safety efforts
A recent study by Aaron Thompson found that high-performing school social workers were more likely to have graduate degrees and work in states with certification standards. This suggests that policies supporting minimum competencies and national certification standards can improve school safety outcomes for students.
While men lose more weight on low-carb diets, women show improved artery flexibility
A new study found that low-carb diets can improve artery flexibility in women, even if men lose weight more, suggesting a potential benefit for pre-diabetic women. This improvement in artery flexibility reduces the risk of developing serious heart conditions.
New study shows how a single binge drinking episode affects gene that regulates sleep
A single episode of binge drinking can alter a key gene that regulates sleep, leading to increased non-rapid eye movement sleep and reduced sleep in subsequent periods. This finding may shed light on the link between sleep disturbances and alcoholism in humans.
BPA can induce multigenerational effects on ability to communicate
Researchers found that BPA exposure in grandparents of mice led to altered vocalization patterns in their offspring, potentially affecting parental care. The study suggests multigenerational effects of BPA on communication deficits in humans with autism or neurobehavioral disorders.
New method makes weather forecasts right as rain
Researchers from the University of Missouri developed a system that improves rainfall forecast accuracy by considering evaporation. This method uses dual-polarization radar to track raindrops and a model assessing atmospheric humidity, resulting in more accurate forecasts for locations 30 miles or more from National Weather Service radar.
Link found between neurotransmitter imbalance, brain connectivity in those with autism
A study at the University of Missouri-Columbia has identified a link between neurotransmitter imbalance and brain connectivity in individuals with autism. The research found that those with low functional connectivity tended to have impaired listening comprehension and reduced balance of excitatory to inhibitory neurotransmitter levels.
SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of Autism and Developmental Disorders·DateJun 6, 2018
Putting lungs under less stress
Researchers have identified a new less-invasive treatment option for patients with Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS), using ultra-protective mechanical ventilation. This approach may mitigate further lung injury and improve outcomes without requiring extracorporeal carbon dioxide removal.
Federal home visiting program can be improved to better meet needs of families
The MIECHV program has established six benchmarks for organizations to demonstrate improvement, but research suggests only three constructs - preterm birth, breastfeeding, and well-child visits - are supported by evidence-based research. The review identifies 16 other non-mandated constructs that have evidence of home visiting improvin...
Workplace dress codes present barriers to people living with disabilities
Research from the University of Missouri finds that workplace dress codes present a significant barrier to people living with disabilities, leading to increased stigma and decreased confidence. The study highlights the need for inclusive and adaptive clothing options to promote workplace inclusivity.
Students taught by highly qualified teachers more likely to obtain bachelor's degree
A study by Se Woong Lee found that students taught by successive teachers with expertise in the subject they're learning are more likely to succeed both short-term and long-term. This suggests that schools can increase student success by prioritizing teacher qualifications and collaboration among educators.
SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalEducational Evaluation and Policy Analysis·DateMay 22, 2018
Understanding veteran privacy rules could help improve counseling strategies
Researchers found that veterans tend to disclose wartime information on a strict need-to-know basis, and understanding these privacy rules can help therapists develop new techniques. Counseling strategies can be improved by emphasizing non-judgmental spaces and maintaining trust with clients.
SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalPsychology of Language and Communication·DateMay 16, 2018
New device could increase battery life of electronics by a hundred-fold
Researchers developed a new magnetic material that can address both heat and short battery life issues in electronic devices. The device exhibits unidirectional current and significantly less dissipative power, paving the way for increased efficiency and longer battery life.
Researchers find clues to treating psychoses in mental health patients
Boosting learning from positive and negative feedback may prevent psychosis, according to researchers at the University of Missouri. Brain scans using functional magnetic resonance imaging can also identify markers for psychosis risk, helping mental health professionals better treat patients with psychoses.
New findings explain how melatonin promotes sleep
Researchers from the University of Missouri School of Medicine have discovered how melatonin suppresses neurons in the brain that keep you awake and alert. This finding could lead to new therapies for insomnia by targeting the MT1 receptor.
Opening a new door to immunity
Researchers uncover clue to disease process development by identifying novel way to control innate immune response, which may translate to treatments for conditions such as atherosclerosis, autoimmunity, and heart failure. Animal studies support finding, showing mice with mutated sNASP proteins are more susceptible to septic infection.
New study sheds light (and some shade) on anole diversification
A new study reveals that thermal physiological differences allowed Greater Antillean anoles to occupy different microclimates, facilitating species coexistence. The research found that species diverged in thermal tolerance and sprint performance, with warmer environment species having higher maximum temperatures and optimal temperatures.
New models could uncover important answers for Alzheimer's researchers
Researchers have created a rat model that can be used to study the buildup of amyloid plaques and vascular abnormalities in the brain, two key traits of Alzheimer's disease. The model, which uses human APP and PS1 proteins, has shown poor memory and learning in rats, similar to those observed in humans suffering from Alzheimer's.
Researchers develop new tools in the fight against diabetic blindness
A team of researchers has created a mouse model exhibiting diabetic retinopathy symptoms, paving the way for future translational research studies. The study also reveals that the NLRP3 inflammasome plays a key role in the development of diabetic retinopathy.
Analyzing insect performance
A meta-analysis of 44 studies on neonicotinoid insecticides' effects on arthropod performance found similar negative impacts on abundance, behavior, condition, reproductive success, and survival. The research suggests that these insecticides affect not only pollinators but also detritivores and predators.
Key workflow interruptions in emergency departments identified
A study from the University of Missouri found that electronic medical record documentation and direct patient care are the most common workflow interruptions in emergency departments, leading to increased workloads and decreased efficiency. The research suggests that changes in workflow could improve patient care and nurse productivity.
SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalInternational Journal of Human-Computer Studies·DateApr 18, 2018
Ebola media coverage impacted how the public perceived the disease and survivors
A MU study found that news coverage of Ebola focused on individual stories to humanize those affected, increasing public understanding and awareness. The researchers suggest that reporters covering health crises should consider writing human interest stories that also share helpful information.