A recent study found that using personal assistant applications on smartphones can significantly improve memory in older adults with dementia. The researchers trained participants to use the technology to receive reminders about daily events and activities, resulting in improved memory performance.
University of Missouri researchers are using a video game to teach middle schoolers about science and improving literacy outcomes for second graders through speech recognition software. The programs aim to increase student engagement and prepare them for future careers in various fields.
Researchers detect four cryptic variants of SARS-CoV-2 in NYC wastewater samples, suggesting possible animal origins. The variants' mutations could help identify the next variant of concern for COVID-19.
Researchers analyzed data from nearly 500,000 adolescents across 80 nations and found consistent sex differences in career aspirations, with boys dominating 'things-oriented' occupations and girls preferring 'people-oriented' roles. The study also revealed larger differences in gender-equal countries, such as Finland, Norway, or Sweden.
Researchers at MU developed a new framework to identify people previously overlooked for AUD, focusing on 13 risk factors such as impulsive behavior and reward sensitivity. The framework aims to provide more accurate diagnoses and connect individuals with tailored treatment options.
Researchers at the University of Missouri identified 46 specific mutations in the Omicron variant that enable it to evade pre-existing antibodies. These mutations are particularly prevalent in the region where antibodies bind to the virus, making them a key target for future antiviral treatments.
Scientists at the University of Missouri study photodissociation reactions on the quantum level, revealing strong quantum effects that challenge classical 'billiard-ball' models. The research could lead to a better understanding of atmospheric chemistry and develop new theoretical frameworks.
Scientists at the University of Missouri discovered that bisphenol A (BPA) exposure during pregnancy can negatively impact fetal brain development. MicroRNAs in the placenta play a key role in regulating cellular functions, including neural development. Researchers believe that microRNA packages could reach the brain through the placen...
A team of scientists at the University of Missouri used small wearable sensors to gather data on how people with a traumatic hand amputation use a prosthesis versus a transplanted hand. The study found that hand transplant recipients exhibit a more balanced pattern of limb use, while prosthesis users rely heavily on their prosthetic hand.
Researchers have developed a custom finger clip device that measures blood pressure and other vital signs like heart rate, oxygen saturation, body temperature, and respiratory rate. The device uses photoplethysmography sensors and achieves an accuracy rate of about 90% for systolic blood pressure.
Researchers at the University of Missouri are using a $2 million grant to install in-home sensors that monitor older adults' daily activities. The sensors can detect falls, track vital signs, and alert care teams to abnormalities, enabling timely interventions.
Researchers at the University of Missouri have developed a free online resource that speeds up data analysis of human genomes three times faster than current methods. This enables scientists to see how an individual's genome makes them susceptible to different diseases in different ways, ultimately reducing associated costs and increas...
A team led by Sarah Jacquet from the University of Missouri created 3D virtual models of ancient worm armor plates, discovering two new species and gaining insights into convergent evolution. The study used micro-CT imaging to analyze the individual components of the armor, determining how they protected the worms until extinction.
A new protocol has been developed to identify potential false-positive COVID-19 results, particularly in asymptomatic non-exposed individuals. The method involved retesting all positive results from such patients, revealing 20 out of 288 initial positives to be false positives.
Researchers at the Missouri School of Journalism explored how people value digital news, finding that print newspapers moved to digital platforms without understanding the differences between mediums. The study identified eight affordances of digital news readers, including the importance of design elements like color and hyperlinks.
Researchers have developed a database of parasite-host interactions among ancient ocean animals, shedding light on the evolution of biodiversity and the impact of parasitism on ecosystems. The study suggests that parasites can positively stabilize coastal ecosystems, making them more stable despite individual harm to hosts.
A new study at the University of Missouri found that telehealth reduced stress for nursing home residents while increasing access to convenient care. However, it also removed socialization opportunities and created confusion for residents with cognitive difficulties.
Researchers at University of Missouri and University of Chicago develop an artificial material that can respond to its environment, make decisions, and perform actions not directed by humans. The material uses a computer chip to control information processing and convert energy into mechanical energy.
The study aims to identify strategies that nursing homes used to overcome challenges related to the pandemic and develop recommendations for improving quality of care and patient health outcomes. By analyzing more than 500 Missouri nursing homes, researchers hope to find patterns for what went well or what can be improved.
The University of Missouri is developing an online certificate program for clinical engineers through a $2.6 million grant from the Missouri Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development. The program aims to increase the number of trained and qualified clinical engineers in the workforce, particularly in rural communities.
A researcher at the University of Missouri-Columbia has discovered a protein called USP15 that protects cancer cells from destruction by removing ubiquitin tags placed on them by immunomodulatory drugs. Testing patients for USP15 may help determine resistance to these therapies, paving the way for more precise and customized treatments.
Public health officials can use storytelling to resonate key messages with their audiences, taking into account social determinants of health and empathetic creativity. Effective storytelling highlights complexities, leading to strategies like outdoor firepits to address issues.
Researchers aim to create a flexible security feature that learns from past cyberattacks and requires minimal human intervention. They'll collaborate with device developers to share solutions and improve future responses to attacks.
Researchers identified five specific mutations prevalent in Delta Plus infections compared to Delta, highlighting the need for expanded antiviral tools. The findings provide clues on how the virus mutates and evade antibodies produced from previous COVID-19 infections or vaccinations.
A study by the University of Missouri found that people are more likely to praise someone for good deeds if they know the person has also faced suffering earlier in life. This discovery sheds light on how humans process and react to positive behaviors, such as giving praise.
A recent study by University of Missouri-Columbia professor Linda Bullock found that infants of mothers with only one abusive partner had worse cognitive outcomes compared to those with multiple male partners, including some who were abusive. This suggests that the absence of support from a father figure can hinder a child's development.
Researchers at the University of Missouri have found a significant increase in chronic wasting disease among Kansas counties, with seven previously undetected cases identified. The project aims to track the spread of the disease and raise awareness among hunters, who are encouraged to test their harvested deer for the disease.
Researchers uncover a 500-million-year-old 'worm-like' fossil, expanding the number of worm-like species known from this time period in North America. The discovery provides new clues about prehistoric environments and ecologies, helping scientists better understand the diversity of ancient animals during the Cambrian explosion.
A new study at the University of Missouri found that shelter cats acclimated well to their new families and became significantly less stressed over time. The study monitored cats for 18 weeks and tracked stress measures such as cortisol levels and weight gain.
Researchers will provide training to teachers on effective parent engagement, creating class-wide communication plans and tailored interventions for struggling students. By fostering collaborative relationships between parents and schools, academics and behavioral issues can be addressed, ultimately improving student performance.
A University of Missouri researcher is using a grant from the National Science Foundation to explore how time can factor in a building collapse. She's conducting thousands of hours of laboratory tests to determine the breaking points of reinforced concrete building materials.
A study at the University of Missouri found that telehealth helped pediatric physical therapists deliver critical therapy services virtually, despite technical issues in rural areas. Access to reliable Wi-Fi was a common challenge, but caregiver engagement was reported as the biggest facilitator to successful sessions.
A study published in Trends in Genetics reveals that the cat genome is remarkably similar to the human genome, with similarities found even in mice and dogs. This discovery holds promise for understanding genetic diseases in cats and humans, including polycystic kidney disease and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.
Researchers at University of Missouri-Columbia use $4 million in grants to connect with 200 middle school teachers through ECHO platform, aiming to improve student outcomes and reduce teacher stress. Prosocial education practices, including kindness, empathy and internal praise, are found to positively impact student behavior.
Researchers at the University of Missouri have found that cattle are losing important environmental adaptations due to a lack of genetic information. They identified specific DNA variations associated with adaptations such as heat resistance and tolerance for high humidity, which could be used to create DNA tests for cattle.
A recent study found that young workers (21-34 years old) prioritize respectful communication in the workplace over trendy work perks. The researchers believe that leaders and managers can foster supportive cultures by training them on effective communication and recognizing employees' value to their organization.
A new study from University of Missouri found that virtual schooling exposed the lack of digital resources among Black families, causing stress and burnout. The study highlights the digital divide that already existed for many Black families, which can have long-term negative impacts on learning and health outcomes.
A recent study by University of Missouri researcher Jennifer Hulett found a link between forgiveness, congregational support, and reduced stress biomarkers in breast cancer survivors. The findings suggest that spiritual practices like prayer, meditation, and yoga may improve physical health outcomes among cancer survivors.
A review of over 9,000 US patients with severe COVID-19 found less than 1% contracted the virus again, with an average reinfection time of 3.5 months. Patients categorized as non-white were at greater risk of reinfection.
A University of Missouri study found that rural Missouri counties experience nursing shortages at a greater rate than metropolitan counties. The study also identified three rural counties where more than half of the nurses are over 54, nearing retirement.
Archivist Sarah Buchanan assesses and preserves artifacts to better understand their origin and cultural heritage. Her research reveals the importance of provenance in authenticating collections and shedding light on cultural history.
A study by University of Missouri researchers reveals that physical layout and structure of print newspapers can improve readers' understanding of news on digital platforms. The team identified 10 affordances, or contextual clues, that help readers make sense of news, including physical, perceived, and relational affordances.
A recent study by a MU researcher found that tick-borne diseases are on the rise in the Midwest, particularly in humid climates. The study collected data on various tick species and their activity patterns, providing valuable insights for public health officials.
Researchers at the University of Missouri found that drivers with shift work sleep disorder are three times more likely to be involved in a vehicle accident than those without the condition. The study analyzed real-world driving data and found that shift work sleep disorder increased the risk of traffic crashes by nearly 300%.
Researchers at the University of Missouri have developed a model for studying uterine fluid in the lab without invasive monitoring or experimentation during active pregnancies. The discovery paves the way for precision medicine approaches to maintaining healthy pregnancies and detecting potential complications.
A portable, non-invasive bioluminescence imaging device has been developed to monitor biological processes in animals and humans. The technology uses a biochemical reaction between an enzyme and oxygen to produce light, allowing for minimally invasive diagnostics and potentially reducing the need for expensive tests.
A new study from the University of Missouri School of Medicine found that people of color, those with a higher income, and younger individuals are more likely to participate in cancer clinical trials. The analysis of 20,053 respondents showed an average overall clinical trial participation rate of 6.51%, with significant differences in...
A recent study by University of Missouri researcher Wilson Majee found that rural youth who lack access to education are more likely to engage in risky behaviors such as substance abuse. The study suggests that a combination of factors, including poverty, unemployment, and lack of resources, can create feelings of hopelessness and desp...
A $2.5 million grant from the National Science Foundation will support algebra teachers' professional development at the University of Missouri-Columbia. The goal is to create new online materials that help students better understand algebra and develop critical thinking skills, ultimately leading to improved learning outcomes.
Community newspapers across the US are reevaluating their business models in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, embracing self-advocacy and exploring new revenue streams. Journalists are now open to discussing the challenges facing their profession and recognizing the importance of community investment.