Researchers from University of Utah introduced Simulating Travel Rates in Diverse Environments (STRIDE) model to predict walking travel times with unprecedented accuracy. The model considers slope steepness, vegetation density, and ground surface roughness for efficient routes.
Scientists at the University of Utah's Department of Chemistry developed a new contrast agent that allows for the simultaneous observation of cell structure and function in electron microscopy. The discovery could improve imaging tools used to study signaling in functioning cells and other molecular-scale processes.
Researchers have found elevated 'oxidative potential' in sediments from the Great Salt Lake's playa, indicating a greater risk to human health. The sediments contain high levels of toxic metals, including lead, manganese, and arsenic, which can cause respiratory issues like asthma.
Researchers at the University of Utah developed Diadem, a noninvasive device that stimulates deep brain regions to disrupt faulty signals causing chronic pain. In a recent clinical trial, participants experienced significant pain relief after just one treatment session.
Researchers analyzed fossilized shells to reconstruct sea surface temperatures and atmospheric CO2 levels during two hyperthermals, finding a close link between the two. The study provides insights into carbon cycle feedback mechanisms and sensitivities critical for predicting anthropogenic climate change.
Researchers from the University of Utah debunk misconceptions about ballot collection, finding it improves voting experience for Native Americans. Statistical analysis shows no evidence of voter fraud, contradicting common arguments against the practice.
Scientists have found that PKP precursors originate from ultra-low velocity zones in the Earth's mantle, which are likely generated by melting mid-ocean ridge basalts. These zones are not limited to hotspots, but rather spread across the core-mantle boundary beneath North America.
A study led by Utah mathematicians found that fast decisions reflect biases, while slow decisions do not. Slow deciders make more accurate choices as they accumulate more evidence and consider multiple perspectives.
University of Utah researchers have developed a targeted therapy approach using alpha particles to break down harmful amyloid beta plaques, potentially slowing the devastating neurodegenerative disease. The treatment, called Targeted Alpha Therapy, delivers particles directly to the plaques while minimizing damage to healthy tissues.
Researchers have successfully transformed existing optoelectronic devices, including LEDs, into spintronics devices by injecting spin-aligned electrons without ferromagnets or magnetic fields. The breakthrough uses a chiral spin filter made from hybrid organic-inorganic halide perovskite material, overcoming a major barrier to commerci...
Genetic analysis reveals that ancient Indigenous people brought the native tuber to southern Utah, adding to the list of culturally significant plant species domesticated in the Southwestern U.S. The Four Corners potato was transported and cultivated by various tribes, including Pueblo and Apache communities.
Researchers at the University of Utah have developed a compact rapid cycling fuel-fired atmospheric water harvesting device that can produce clean drinking water in arid places. The device uses hygroscopic materials to draw water molecules out of non-humid air and then applies heat to release those molecules into liquid form.
Researchers discovered that multiple ant species have evolved specialized relationships with understory trees in Central America, mirroring similar mutualisms found elsewhere. The study suggests that these interactions can evolve independently, with two distinct clusters emerging around 3 million years ago.
A meta-analysis of existing research found that spending time in nature, even as little as 10 minutes, can yield short-term benefits for adults with mental illness. The analysis examined 30 years of published research on the social, mental, and physical health effects of exposure to nature.
Researchers at the University of Utah and Max Planck Institute have discovered an intermediate-mass black hole in the Omega Centauri cluster, providing crucial evidence for a long-theorized class of black holes. The discovery offers insights into galaxy evolution and the formation history of globular clusters.
Research highlights that wind-carried dust from the exposed bed of the Great Salt Lake is affecting Pacific Islanders and Hispanics disproportionately, with lower exposure levels among white people. Restoring the lake to a healthy water level could reduce these disparities, delivering ecological and economic benefits.
The newly discovered Lokiceratops rangiformis is a massive horned dinosaur found in the badlands of northern Montana. It boasts two enormous blade-like horns on its frill, as well as an asymmetric spike, making it one of the most ornate species ever found.
Researchers have discovered that plant bacterial pathogens can acquire and repurpose elements of phages to wipe out competing microbes, potentially providing an alternative to antibiotics. This finding suggests that phage-derived elements called tailocins could be harnessed to target specific strains of bacteria.
Researchers found that the initial rise of O2 in Earth's atmosphere was dynamic, unfolding in fits-and-starts until perhaps 2.2 billion years ago. The team also tracked the accumulation of O2 in the oceans, revealing fluctuations that coincided with changes in atmospheric oxygen.
Researchers have discovered concentrated rare earth elements in coal mines and adjacent formations in Utah and Colorado. The findings could enable the extraction of these critical minerals from domestic sources, supporting the transition to renewable energy.
A new study from the University of Utah documents the current extent of the balsam woolly adelgid infestation in Utah's Wasatch Mountains, with 41% of subalpine fir biomass exposed to damage. By 2100, climate projections predict that 79% of the area will be exposed to some level of damage.
Researchers compared zebrafish and medaka fish species to understand the physiological differences between regenerating and non-regenerating animals. Zebrafish exhibit an interferon response in their heart tissue after injury, which promotes the growth of new blood vessels and leads to muscle regeneration.
A novel pyroelectrochemical cell (PEC) developed by University of Utah engineers can generate electricity from ambient temperature changes, demonstrating its potential for 'Internet of Things' applications. The device stores energy in an electric double layer, enabling it to power sensors without recharging.
Researchers found thousands of nematodes in the lake's reef-like structures, previously thought to be inhabited only by brine shrimp and flies. The discovery suggests bacteria can help these worms adapt to highly saline conditions, opening new lines of inquiry into the Great Salt Lake's web of life.
A new study analyzed 98,000 UAP sighting reports over a 20-year period, finding that the majority occurred in western parts of the US. The researchers identified 'hot spots' with high numbers of reports and 'cold spots' with low numbers.
A new portable sensor has been found to accurately measure black carbon concentrations as well as a regulatory standard sensor, filling a massive gap in air quality monitoring. The sensor's portability and affordability make it suitable for remote or inaccessible sites, allowing for more comprehensive data collection.
New research from the University of Utah reveals that pollen analysis indicates salt crusts formed between 5,400 and 3,500 years ago, contradicting the long-held assumption that they formed when Lake Bonneville dried up 13,000 years ago. The study's findings suggest a dynamic landscape with significant erosion and sediment accumulation.
Scientists at University of Utah and University of Massachusetts Amherst uncover the physics behind dopant-polymer interactions that explain inconsistent conductivity issues in organic materials. The discovery reveals that a critical mass of electrons triggers collective screening, allowing rest of electrons to flow unimpeded.
A new study published in Monthly Weather Review analyzes hundreds of extreme snowfall events in Utah's central Wasatch Mountains. Researchers found that storm systems carrying relatively little water vapor were still capable of producing heavy snows, and the relationship between high-IVT storms and extreme precipitation is complex.
Researchers at the University of Utah found that participants who walked through nature showed improved executive attention compared to those walking in urban areas. The study used EEG data to measure brain activity and controlled for factors such as exercise.
Researchers developed a mathematical model that predicts menopause can be delayed by implanting ovarian tissue back into the body, potentially preventing health issues associated with menopause. The model suggests that certain conditions, such as age and primordial follicle count, influence how long menopause is delayed.
Research by University of Utah scholar Wayne Johnson found that novel ideas are more likely to be met with disagreement and reduced support as they become less familiar. This can lead to missed opportunities, as conflicting evaluations are often seen as a negative signal rather than evidence of creative potential.
Researchers have sequenced 52 Psilocybe specimens, including 39 species previously unsequenced, to understand the evolution of psychoactive psilocybin production. The study reveals two distinct gene orders within the psilocybin-producing gene cluster, suggesting an ancient split in the genus.
Researchers discovered a trio of protein segments guiding chromosomal interactions in nematodes, shedding light on the complex process. The study, published in PNAS, provides new insights into meiosis and infertility, with implications for human reproductive health.
A study led by University of Utah researchers has shed new light on how fog forms in mountainous areas, providing insights for improving forecasts. The team used high-resolution data and modeling to better understand the complex physical processes involved in fog formation.
A team of researchers found that predicting snowflake movement is surprisingly simple, with patterns emerging based on a parameter called the Stokes number. This discovery has implications for weather forecasting and climate change, as it can affect precipitation patterns and cloud lifetimes.
Researchers have created a high-fidelity record of atmospheric CO2 levels spanning the last 66 million years, revealing that current concentrations are unprecedented in recent geologic history. The study provides valuable insights into past climate conditions and helps scientists better understand future climate change.
The Telescope Array has detected the second-highest energy cosmic ray ever observed, with an energy equivalent to dropping a brick on your toe from waist height. The Amaterasu particle deepens the mystery of ultra-high-energy cosmic rays, which may follow particle physics unknown to science.
A collaborative effort between scientists from the Natural History Museum of Utah and cavers led to the discovery of fossils spanning over 3,000 years in Boomerang Cave. The findings revealed a faithful reflection of mammal diversity in the area, including species unknown to the region.
A new study reveals that fungal proteins can facilitate ice formation at temperatures as warm as -10°C, challenging the long-held assumption that pure water only freezes at 0°C. The research also shows that these proteins are incredibly efficient, with some being 25 times smaller than other known ice-nucleating proteins.
A study using Google Street View cars found hyper-local air pollution hotspots in the Salt Lake Valley, revealing spatial variability and environmental justice issues. The research identified pollution emission sources off-road from traffic and industrial areas.
A new study by University of Utah biologist Nalini Nadkarni found that epiphytes are vulnerable to disturbances such as climate change, deforestation, and hurricanes. Her research highlights the importance of preserving these plants, which play a key role in maintaining forest biodiversity.
A new interdisciplinary center at the University of Utah aims to fortify the region's power infrastructure against climate-related threats, including floods, high winds, and drought. The $14 million center will gather and distribute climate and grid data to develop customized models for risk quantification and forecasting.
A new study found that voluntary collective isolation alone was ineffective in preventing the spread of COVID-19 among the Amazonian Tsimané. The researchers used a computer model and serological testing to confirm their predictions, showing nearly identical infection rates across communities.
A new study finds that US property values exposed to wildfires and tree mortality will increase sharply in future climate scenarios, particularly in the western US. Aggressive climate action can substantially reduce exposure, with the value of exposed property topping out at $11 billion under mitigation scenarios.
Decades of seismic data reveal that central Utah's earthquake 'swarms' are more common than other types of sequences, with 80% of sequences being swarms. The study also found that these swarms exhibit heterogeneous behavior across different locations in the region.
A new study finds that living in neighborhoods with higher air pollution, lower walkability, and density are associated with a greater incidence rate of hospitalization due to COVID-19. Neighborhoods with higher public transit quality and access also show a higher incidence rate of hospitalization.
In ancient California's San Francisco Bay Area, women played a crucial role in the economy, with mothers prioritizing their female offspring through extended breastfeeding. This practice may have led to female-biased wealth disparities, as older women were buried with greater wealth than men.
Scientists have confirmed that Earth's inner core is not a homogenous mass, but rather a textured solid metal sphere. The research, led by Guanning Pang and Keith Koper, used seismic data from naturally occurring earthquakes to study the inner core's structure.
A new study reveals that fish produce a chemical sunscreen called Gadusol to protect their eggs from UV radiation, which is essential for their survival. The compound, encoded in the DNA of female fish, prevents damage and mutations caused by UVR exposure.