Researchers from the University of Missouri have developed a biomarker test that can detect and predict osteoarthritis before symptoms appear. The test uses specific proteins found in joint fluid to identify patients at risk of developing arthritis.
Researchers at the University of Missouri discovered that apigenin slows breast cancer cell growth by inducing cell death, inhibiting proliferation, and reducing gene expression. Apigenin-treated mice showed smaller tumors and restricted nutrient flow to cancer cells.
Restaurant design plays a significant role in diners' willingness to wait for a table. A MU study found that overcrowded waiting areas make customers feel less comfortable and more likely to leave. The research suggests redesigning waiting areas with privacy can increase customer comfort and retention.
A new happiness model developed by a MU researcher identifies two key components: the need for new positive experiences and appreciation for what already exists. The model suggests ways to reduce the 'let down' from material purchases and helps individuals train themselves to stay at their highest possible range of happiness.
Researchers found that contemplating death can lead to decreased militaristic attitudes, improved health choices, and increased kindness. This is due to people's tendency to seek meaning and belonging in the face of mortality.
A researcher at the University of Missouri has developed a system that helps public health officials identify priorities for resource allocation by assessing health risk factors and conditions. The system balances six criteria, including severity, magnitude, and disparity, to determine top health priorities.
A MU researcher is working on a project to protect soybeans from nematode parasites, which cause significant crop losses in the US. The goal is to develop genetically modified soybean plants with enhanced resistance to these pests.
A University of Missouri researcher says safe, separate sleep environments are critical to preventing sudden unexpected infant deaths (SUIDs). More than 4,500 infants die unexpectedly during sleep each year in the US due to unsafe sleep environments.
A recent study by MU researchers suggests that the brain features a complex network of areas responsible for spiritual experiences, rather than a single 'God spot'. The study found that aspects of spiritual functioning are related to increased activity in the frontal lobe and decreased activity in the right parietal lobe.
University of Missouri veterinarian Leah Cohn has discovered an effective treatment for cytauxzoonosis, a deadly feline disease spread by Lone Star ticks. The treatment has been shown to save about 60 percent of infected cats, offering new hope for cat owners nationwide.
Research suggests stress can cause cognitive decline in women with breast cancer, regardless of treatment status. Women with passive coping strategies and high stress levels experience impaired memory and attention. Effective coping strategies are essential to maintaining cognitive function.
A University of Missouri research team is conducting a two-year study to reclaim developed flood plain land and keep waterways free of pollutants. The project uses 777 willow trees to filter water and potentially produce a cash crop for farmers.
A team of University of Missouri researchers used a groundbreaking computer algorithm to compare the genomes of six plants and six animals, finding identical DNA sequences for the first time. The discovery could help solve mysteries of plant evolution and improve techniques for creating medicines and crops.
A recent study found that sexual objectification of female artists in music videos is a pervasive issue across all genres, with African-American artists wearing more provocative attire. The research suggests that music videos can play a significant role in shaping young audiences' perceptions of attractiveness and value.
University of Missouri anthropologist Robert Benfer has identified numerous earthen animal effigy mounds in coastal Peru, dating back to 4,000 years ago. The mounds exhibit astronomical orientations, aligning with celestial events such as the Milky Way and summer solstices.
Researchers at University of Missouri and Oregon found that consumers often unintentionally buy products with animal testing due to lack of clear definitions. This ambiguity leads to deceptive advertising, making it difficult for consumers to make informed moral decisions.
A statewide survey of Missouri nursing homes found nearly 90% of residents and family members satisfied with care facilities. The survey highlighted improvements made by administrators to deliver homelike care, leading to excellent ratings for quality of life, care, and service.
Researchers found that exposure to alcohol-related images can lead to increased expression of racial bias on a subconscious level. Participants who viewed these ads made more errors indicative of racial bias in a subsequent task than those who viewed non-alcoholic beverage ads.
Researchers found that sex-deprived fruit flies prefer alcohol to satisfy a physical reward, which could lead to understanding of human addiction causes. The study's findings could also inform the development of treatments for substance abuse in humans.
A recent study found that nursing home RNs and LPNs differ in their approach to medication reconciliation, leading to opportunities for improved collaboration. Enhancing training and assigning complementary roles may improve patient care and satisfaction.
Cartilage transplant tissue can now be stored for up to 63 days, compared to 28 days previously, using a new method developed by researchers at the University of Missouri. This increase in storage time is expected to greatly improve the success rate of joint grafting procedures.
A University of Missouri researcher found that over one-third of veterans' caregivers report high levels of strain, yet on average, they also report being satisfied with their caregiving responsibilities. Caregivers who received outside help and developed coping strategies were more likely to experience satisfaction.
Researchers at the University of Missouri are studying the molecular structure of a controversial pesticide to determine if it can be made more efficient and safer. They found that the active ingredient, methyl iodide, can be slowed down in its release, reducing the need for large amounts of pesticide.
A recent study found that fitness programs for minority adults are often culturally insensitive, leading to modest improvements in fitness but limited long-term effects. Researchers call for more culturally tailored approaches to increase the effectiveness of exercise interventions.
A $300,000 grant from the US Department of Defense is being used to study the mental and physical discomfort experienced by patients undergoing limb loss or congenital absence. The goal is to develop more effective rehabilitation strategies by understanding changes in brain organization and behavior.
A recent MU study found that many newer-generation video games equate religion with violence in game narratives. The study analyzed five recent games, including Mass Effect 2 and Assassin's Creed, which closely tie religion to violent plotlines.
A new study by Gustavo Carlo found that Mexican-American college students' family and peer attachments are associated with prosocial and physically aggressive behaviors. College students with strong relationships reported less physical aggression and higher empathy levels.
A University of Missouri expert argues that social workers should return to the juvenile corrections system, citing their specialized qualifications as counselors and facilitators. This could lead to a more rehabilitative approach, with an emphasis on addressing youth offenders' mental health and social issues.
Scientists at the University of Missouri will use the donation to create the Sidney Kimmel Institute for Nuclear Renaissance, studying fundamental physics of unknown energy producing reactions. The goal is to discover a new, clean alternative form of energy with potential uses depending on the extracted energy and process consistency.
Researchers found US consumers prefer sustainably grown US cotton over conventional practices. Transparency is key to promoting sales, with consumers willing to pay up to $5 more for a $30 shirt made from US-grown cotton.
Researchers have identified a new species of prehistoric crocodile, nicknamed Shieldcroc, which is an ancestor of today's species. The discovery provides insight into the evolution of crocodiles and how humans can protect their environment to prevent extinction.
A study by University of Missouri researcher Micah Mazurek found that 64% of adolescents with ASD spent most of their free time watching TV and playing video games, while only 13.2% used socially interactive media.
A University of Missouri researcher and his colleague found major methodological flaws in numerous studies claiming men outperform women in math due to the 'men are better at math' stereotype. The study's findings suggest that interventions based on this stereotype may be doing more harm than good.
University of Missouri researchers found that emotional news framing during crises influences public responses, with 'sadness-frame' stories eliciting more positive attitudes. Corporate responses focusing on victim well-being can improve perceptions.
Researchers found willingness to take financial risks decreases with age and economic downturns. Investors should not adjust their risk tolerance according to the economic climate. Financial planners must consider clients' attitudes toward risk for appropriate investment portfolio recommendations.
Researchers used advanced imaging technology to visualize minute structural elements within blood vessels and found elastin plays a key role in supporting arterial function. This knowledge could help understand and treat complications of cardiovascular disease, including high blood pressure and diabetes.
Research suggests that breast cancer survivors who practice MBSR experience improved mood, reduced stress markers, and increased mindfulness. The study highlights the potential benefits of this non-pharmaceutical approach as a complement to traditional treatments.
Tree frogs with matching chromosome numbers have distinct vocal performances, which female frogs preferentially respond to. This study provides new insights into how new frog species may evolve through rapid changes in behavior and reproductive isolation.
The 'plasma brush' uses chemical reactions to disinfect and clean out cavities, forming a better bond for cavity fillings. This technology could reduce costs by 75% and increase the lifespan of fillings by 60%, benefiting patients and dentists.
Researchers at MU found that tiny increases in creatinine levels in pets' blood can indicate acute kidney damage. A new staging system helps veterinarians assess the severity of kidney injury and predict outcomes.
Researchers at the University of Missouri have discovered a protein called Enhanced Disease Susceptibility 1 (EDS1) that plays a crucial role in a plant's defense against bacterial pathogens. This finding could lead to improved disease resistance in food crops such as soybeans, ultimately enhancing global food security.
Research by University of Missouri researcher Gustavo Carlo finds that parents' financial problems and resulting mental distress impact their relationships with children. Children are less likely to engage in prosocial behaviors due to parental depression.
The University of Missouri has received a $3 million grant from the National Science Foundation to train scientists in neutron scattering techniques. The program will focus on three areas of research and provide hands-on training at the university's Research Reactor facility.
Researchers at MU College of Veterinary Medicine have identified a biomarker that can indicate infection in dogs, which may also be applicable to humans. This breakthrough could lead to the development of a portable bedside test for quick diagnosis and targeted treatment, reducing antibiotic use and promoting better health outcomes.
Internet users often discover news while searching for unrelated information or engaging in social networking activities. Researchers found three contexts where respondents experience incidental exposure to online news: visiting news sites, checking email and social media, or conducting normal internet searches.
University of Missouri researchers say exercise is beneficial for breast cancer survivors and patients with lymphedema, outweighing risks. Patients at risk can exercise without increasing the risk of developing lymphedema, according to a new literature review.
Researchers found that ephrin proteins help satellite cells navigate and differentiate into muscle fibers. By understanding this process, they hope to develop more effective treatments for muscular dystrophy, a condition where muscles are easily damaged and patients' satellite cells lose their ability to repair.
University of Missouri dietitians recommend families maintain healthy diet and exercise habits during the holiday season. Choosing healthy options at the Thanksgiving table and finding ways to stay active can help prevent weight gain and promote overall well-being.
The university has established a new safe practices room to train nursing students in injury prevention techniques. The room features various stations for practicing communication handoffs, medication safety, and lifting patients, with the goal of preventing errors that could harm patients or nurses.
Researchers at the University of Missouri have developed smartphone-based systems to track military targets and locate remote objects through sound or sight. The technology utilizes smartphone sensors and wireless networks to provide precise locations, holding promise for both military and civilian uses.