Recent research at the University of Missouri discovered that listening to upbeat music can successfully try to be happier. Participants improved their moods after being instructed to attempt to do so, especially when listening to Copland's music, and reported higher levels of happiness over a two-week period.
A University of Missouri study found that male testosterone levels surge during group competitions against rivals, but remain unchanged when competing with friends. This hormonal reaction is linked to the evolution of human cooperation and coalition formation.
A University of Missouri expert analyzed the pelvis fragments of an early hominid fossil, revealing insights into the evolution of modern great apes. The study suggests that the ape's wider pelvis indicates greater lateral balance and stability, while its distinct finger bones indicate a different evolutionary path than initially thought.
Researchers at the University of Missouri have found that the ATP7A gene is essential for copper absorption, leading to a better understanding of Menkes disease. The study used laboratory mice and discovered that the gene's absence can lead to copper deficiency symptoms similar to those seen in children with the disease.
A recent study by University of Missouri anthropologist Mary Shenk found that economic changes, such as higher education and employment, are the primary drivers of declining fertility rates. This shift is attributed to improved living standards and increased access to contraception, resulting in reduced family size and slowing populati...
A new detection test using nanotechnology may make food contamination testing more rapid and accurate, with a sensitivity one hundred times greater than the standard method. The test can detect toxins in as little as one hour, compared to four to six hours for current methods.
A study found that children with autism spent significantly more time playing video games than typically developing peers, and were more likely to develop problematic gaming habits. Conversely, they spent less time on social media and more time watching TV and engaging in physical activities.
Researchers have developed a method to create and control plasma, which could transform American energy generation and storage. The device can hold its own self-magnetic field and travel through regular air without containment, paving the way for significant advancements in energy technology.
Researchers at the University of Missouri found that propranolol improves working memory performance in people with Autism Spectrum Disorder. The study showed significant improvements in working memory abilities, particularly in those who already take the medication for anxiety.
Researchers found that even with multiple individuals contributing to a common cause, group presence reduces an individual's willingness to help. Fundraising strategies can be influenced by social factors, such as emphasizing personal donations and avoiding group interactions.
A new study by University of Missouri researcher Zhiqiang Hu has developed a cost-effective method for monitoring wetland health using microbial analysis. This approach can help identify healthy ecosystems and inform conservation efforts.
A University of Missouri researcher found that couples who share household and child-rearing responsibilities are happier. Doing chores together and having mutual divisions of labor benefitted both spouses, while father-child bonds also contributed to better marital satisfaction.
Scientists have measured the nerves in crocodilians, which are sensitive to changes in their environment. This new measurement will aid biologists in understanding how ancient animals interacted with their surroundings. The research also aims to trace the evolution of this nerve and its relation to animal ecology.
A new form of radiation therapy, BNCT, has been developed by University of Missouri researchers, putting cancer into remission in mice without harmful side effects. The technique targets cancer cells by delivering boron chemicals that shatter and destroy cancer cells from the inside out.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease is often over-diagnosed and over-treated in infants, increasing the risk of unnecessary medication use. A recent study found that when physicians label common symptoms in infants as GERD, parents are more likely to request medication even if it's ineffective.
Researchers identified a specific cell membrane protein blocking cell death in hormone-therapy-related breast cancers, which could be targeted by new therapies. Progestin, a synthetic hormone used in hormone replacement therapy, affects the protein's activity and increases cancer risk.
A new program at the University of Missouri Health Care System is providing support and training for healthcare workers who experience emotional trauma after a patient's death or unexpected decline. The program has been recognized nationally and its effectiveness has been studied in several studies published in top medical journals.
Researchers found that vitamin D supplements can help control blood-sugar levels in obese youths, potentially staving off Type 2 diabetes. The study, published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, showed a significant decrease in insulin levels despite no changes in body weight or activity.
A study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that consuming a high-protein breakfast significantly improves appetite control and reduces unhealthy snacking in young adults. Eating a protein-rich breakfast led to increased fullness and reduced brain activity controlling food cravings.
Research found that park amenities in lower-income neighborhoods are often lacking, with more basketball courts and fewer trails. Higher-income areas tend to have more aesthetic features like water features or decorative landscaping, while middle-class areas have a mix of both.
A study by University of Missouri researchers found that adult males' testosterone levels decrease when they interact with the spouse of a close friend. This suggests an innate biological mechanism that discourages men from pursuing romantic relationships with friends' wives, promoting cooperation and alliance formation.
A global study by University of Missouri researchers found that girls outperform boys in reading, while boys excel in math. The differences persist even in countries with high gender equality, suggesting a possible biological basis for the gaps.
Researchers found that news consumers with 'reward-seeking' personalities are more likely to read news online, engage with websites, and use mobile devices. To maximize online revenue, news organizations should target these reward seekers with brain-friendly designs and emotional storytelling.
Research reveals that international non-governmental organizations (INGOs) reflect the cultures of their home nations, influencing advocacy strategies and techniques. Donors can use this knowledge to select INGOs aligned with their preferred approach to activism.
A University of Missouri researcher found that receiving pensions improves health perceptions in older men and women, with women reporting better well-being initially. However, after five years, men's well-being improved before declining, while women's benefits persisted.
A new study reveals that American black newspapers predominantly report on obesity in a negative light, emphasizing individual responsibility rather than socio-economic factors. This framing may discourage African Americans from taking action to address their weight issues.
Research suggests that happy marriages improve both partners' spirits and well-being, while lower stress levels. Health professionals are advised to consider patients' personal relationships when designing health promotion programs or treatment plans.
Young people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are less likely to receive healthcare transition services than those with other special needs. This can lead to gaps in care and increased dependence on the healthcare system.
A new enzyme therapy has significantly delayed the onset and progression of symptoms in dogs with Batten disease, a rare genetic disorder affecting children. The treatment, developed by MU and BioMarin researchers, replaces the deficient enzyme and is administered into the spinal fluid, slowing brain degeneration and extending survival.
Researchers observed that bisphenol A exposure altered behavior in California mice differently for males and females. In females, BPA reduced exploratory behavior essential for foraging, while in males, it affected territorial marking crucial for defending a home range and mate.
A University of Missouri nursing informatics expert suggests that sophisticated IT leads to more efficient coordination of care and better protection of patient privacy. The study found that nursing homes with technology use more frequent face-to-face communication at the bedside, while those without IT rely on verbal cues or visual cues.
Researchers at the University of Missouri have developed a gold nanoparticle that can transport alpha particles directly to small cancer tumors, reducing damage to healthy organs. The nanoparticle design enables researchers to keep more than 80% of the element inside for extended periods.
Researchers identified a specific math skill, number system knowledge, that correlates with later mathematical ability and employability. Interventions targeting this skill in early childhood may help students catch up and achieve career success.
Research by Tina Bloom at the University of Missouri's Sinclair School of Nursing highlights the dangers of chronic, long-term stress on low-income pregnant women in rural areas. These women experience financial problems, lack of employment opportunities, and isolation, which exacerbate their emotional and physical well-being.
Researchers found that patients view physicians who use decision aids as less capable and may assign them responsibility for negative health outcomes when using CDSSs. To mitigate this, healthcare providers can incorporate decision aids to engage patients and facilitate understanding of diagnoses.
Research at the University of Missouri found that certain exercises benefit obese men but not women with Type 2 diabetes. Obese women may require longer or higher-intensity exercise programs to see similar improvements in cardiovascular function.
A recent study by Michael O'Brien and colleagues found that certain climate change terms entered the popular vocabulary at varying rates, with some gaining popularity in a few years and others taking decades. The study analyzed word usage in popular literature using Google's Ngram database and suggests that better science communication...
Researchers have successfully treated Duchenne muscular dystrophy in dogs using gene therapy, reducing inflammation and improving muscle strength. The study, published in Molecular Therapy, provides a quantum leap forward in fighting this devastating disease, paving the way for future human clinical trials.
Research from the University of Missouri found online discussion boards provide safe environments for mothers to anonymously express child-rearing concerns. Common topics include feeding, sleep, development, discipline, and mother-child relationships.
A compact source of X-rays and other forms of radiation has been invented by a University of Missouri engineering team, enabling the creation of inexpensive and portable X-ray scanners for medical diagnosis and terrorism prevention. The device could improve healthcare services in remote regions and reduce costs.
Research reveals that thoughts of death increase conviction in world views for all groups, with agnostics finding acceptance of multiple beliefs. A study published in Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin found common goals among believers seeking a coherent world view to manage fear of death.
A University of Missouri study failed to replicate previous research on the toxic effects of BPA and genistein, two chemicals that have been linked to obesity and type 2 diabetes in humans. The findings suggest that the chemicals may not have the same adverse effects as previously reported, highlighting the need for more reliable data ...
A University of Missouri study found that conflicts over personal space and fairness are associated with higher anxiety and depression in adolescents. Parents can use household rules such as knocking before entering a sibling's room to resolve disputes and promote healthy psychological development.
A father's death can have long-term effects on a child's later success in life, particularly for late childhood and early adolescence. Research suggests that bereaved children may experience lower adult living standards, earlier marriage, and smaller incomes due to the loss of a father's earning power.
Three new species of slow loris were identified, revealing distinct differences in body size, fur thickness, habitats, and facial markings. This reclassification may increase legal protections for the endangered or threatened animals, as well as highlight the cruelty of keeping them as pets.
Researchers at the University of Missouri have developed a new method to detect artery inflammation in pigs using targeted micro-bubbles. The technique, which has shown promising results, may help identify patients at risk for strokes and monitor the effectiveness of treatments.
Healthcare professionals often view medication reconciliation as a 'checklist' task, but it's actually an opportunity to consider patients' entire therapeutic plans. Effective collaboration is key to ensuring patient safety and accuracy in medication regimens.
Researchers found that two sections of the dystrophin gene contain a 'claw' that grabs nNOS and brings it to muscle cells for repair. The discovery could lead to a therapy for Duchenne muscular dystrophy, which affects males predominantly.
New research at the University of Missouri suggests that eating fewer, larger meals can be more beneficial for obese women than consuming small meals throughout the day. The study found that this approach lowered blood-fat levels and reduced the risk of developing heart disease.
Researchers have found that bilirubin can limit arterial lesions by blocking vascular smooth muscle cell growth, potentially preventing heart attacks and other cardiovascular symptoms.