The global maternal mortality ratio declined from 422 in 1980 to 320 in 1990 and 251 in 2008, with developing countries making significant progress. The study found that HIV accounts for nearly one out of every five maternal deaths, with six countries accounting for more than half of all maternal deaths.
A new study found that developing countries spend more on healthcare than they receive in foreign aid, with sub-Saharan Africa being an exception. The researchers recommend improving transparency and accountability in financial reporting to strengthen the effectiveness of health aid systems.
A University of Washington project aims to make all software open source, allowing users to add custom features to widely used programs. The Prefab system hijacks the display to customize user interaction, enabling people with disabilities to access previously inaccessible interfaces.
A study by University of Washington researchers suggests that dangerous plaques in blood vessels can rupture due to an overproduction of protein-digesting enzymes. This process is associated with plaque hemorrhage, artery-blocking clots, and a higher risk of heart attacks and strokes.
Diabetes patients who struggle with trust and social relationships have a 33% higher mortality rate than those who easily interact with others and seek support. This association holds true even after controlling for other risk factors.
International conservationists warn that allowing Tanzania and Zambia to sell their stockpiled ivory could lead to increased slaughter of elephants throughout Africa. The team argues that the two countries have not met the necessary criteria to demonstrate their elephant populations are secure and law enforcement is effective in combat...
Scientists found nitryl chloride levels comparable to those in marine air near Boulder, Colo., indicating a global source of the pollutant. Chloride from coal burning and other non-coastal areas may contribute to smog formation.
A team of researchers has developed a way to get modern, multiple-processor computers to behave in predictable ways by automatically parceling sets of commands. This allows well-behaved programs to run faster than on single processors, while also reducing errors and improving overall system reliability.
Men who engage in domestic violence overestimated the prevalence of abuse by two to three times, with a higher rate engaging in abusive behavior if they believed it was more common. Researchers suggest that misperceptions about violence may drive this overestimation.
A recent study published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine found that adults with both diabetes and major depression are more than twice as likely to develop dementia compared to those with diabetes alone. The study, led by Dr. Wayne Katon, suggests that major depression doubles the risk of dementia in adults with diabetes.
Researchers identified a gene lta4h involved in TB and leprosy susceptibility, with a role in orchestrating pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory responses. The balanced genotype appears to lead to a balanced inflammatory response, while very strong anti-inflammatory activities may worsen infections.
A five-person team from the University of Washington assessed damage in Haiti after a magnitude-7 earthquake. The team found that much of the loss of human life could have been prevented by using earthquake-resistant designs and construction.
Research by Patrick Christie at the University of Washington found that local people's involvement and leadership are crucial for successful conservation efforts. Participatory planning, collaboration between communities and governance conditions play a vital role in managing conflicts and maintaining the health of marine ecosystems.
Researchers at the University of Washington studied brain signals in eight patients awaiting epilepsy surgery, finding that imagined movements can strengthen brain activity. After less than 10 minutes of practice, brain signals from imagined movement became significantly stronger than when actually performing the physical motion.
The world's population is projected to reach 9 billion by 2050, with a significant decline in crop yields due to rising temperatures and changing precipitation patterns. To address this challenge, scientists are advocating for innovative agricultural systems that reduce land, energy, and water usage while minimizing pollution.
A recent study led by Dr. Lucas Hoffman found that Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a common pathogen in cystic fibrosis lung infections, can resist powerful antibiotics due to adapting to the clogged airways. The mutation enables the bacteria to thrive in viscous lung secretions and survive oxidative stress caused by antibiotic treatment.
Materials scientists at the University of Washington have developed a three-dimensional scaffold made from natural materials that mimic the binding sites for stem cells. Human embryonic stem cells grow and multiply readily on this structure, offering a clean and biodegradable alternative to traditional feeder layers.
Researchers used single-walled carbon nanotubes to study phase transition behavior of argon and krypton atoms. They found that the nanotube's electrical resistance changed when krypton atoms stuck to the surface, and demonstrated sensitivity to individual atom landings.
A study published in Diabetes Care found that patients with depression are at a 36% higher risk of developing advanced micro-vascular complications, such as end-stage kidney disease or blindness. Depression is also linked to a 25% higher risk of macrovascular complications, including stroke and heart attack.
Researchers have developed a new formula to analyze changes in complex systems, enabling detailed maps of their evolution. This tool can be applied to various fields, including neuroscience, air traffic control, and public health.
Researchers developed a new technique to manage dams in the Columbia River basin for a warmer future climate. The approach reduced summer losses in hydropower due to climate change by about a quarter, while bolstering flows for fish and minimizing flooding.
A recent study identified 155 regions on the canine genome influenced by selective breeding. These regions contain 1,630 known or predicted protein-coding genes linked to physical and behavioral variations such as size, coat color, and behavior.
A team of researchers has resolved a long-standing conflict in the theory of galaxy formation, using millions of hours of supercomputer simulations. The study reveals that cosmic explosions, such as supernovas, play a key role in preventing the formation of stars and dark matter at the centers of dwarf galaxies.
Greenroads aims to recognize companies using sustainable methods, provide ideas for greener practices, and offer incentives for environmentally friendly roads. The system allows up to 118 points for voluntary actions, including noise mitigation, storm-water management, and waste reduction.
A team of scientists has discovered that rare microbial organisms, once thought to be undetectable, dominate the ecosystem in a unique hydrothermal vent field. The study, led by William Brazelton at the University of Washington, found that microorganisms can remain rare for long periods before becoming dominant when ecosystems change.
CoRoT-7 b is a rocky planet circling a star 480 light years from Earth, with temperatures above 4,000 degrees F on its surface and potentially hosting multiple volcanoes due to its close orbit. Its extreme volcanic activity makes it unlikely to harbor life.
Researchers tested urban macaques for lead and toxic metal exposure, finding higher levels in younger animals. The study suggests that synanthropic macaques, which share the same ecological niche with humans, could serve as early indicators of human exposure to toxins.
Researchers have found regular patterns in small tremors between episodic tremor and slip events, suggesting a megathrust earthquake could occur closer to the Puget Sound region than previously thought. This new evidence is helping scientists refine building codes and better understand the hazard from a great quake.
Climate Wizard generates color maps of projected temperature and precipitation changes using 16 climate models, making data accessible to a wider audience. The tool allows users to explore climate change impacts on endangered species, drought-prone regions, and freshwater supplies.
Research suggests that environment plays a significant role in women's interest in computer science, with stereotypical settings evoking a masculine image. Women tend to prefer non-stereotypical environments, such as those without Star Trek posters or junk food, and feel less of a sense of belonging in stereotypical settings.
Assistant professor Jessica Lundquist uses low-cost temperature sensors and tennis balls to study mountain precipitation and its impact on lower-elevation communities. The system provides accurate temperature readings for up to 11 months in remote locations, helping improve computer models and storm flooding forecasts.
A new system, MultiLearn, allows up to four students to share a single computer for interactive math problems, effectively quadrupling the number of computers available. Early tests show that elementary school students are able to work independently on their own pace without distraction.
Researchers found that tubercle formation is a critical step in TB infection, and that epithelial cells produce MMP9 enzyme to recruit macrophages. Blocking this pathway may lead to new therapies for TB and other inflammatory conditions.
Researchers analyzed internet offers for free or discounted prescription medications and found that their value is low compared to retail costs. The studies also revealed that efficacy and safety information were often de-emphasized in favor of promotional messaging.
A recent study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences challenges the long-held notion that fish obtain up to 50% of their carbon from terrestrial sources. Instead, researchers found that algae provide a much more nutritious and abundant diet for fish and other aquatic life.
Researchers at the University of Washington successfully used exome sequencing to identify a previously unknown gene responsible for Miller syndrome, a mendelian disorder. This breakthrough study demonstrates the efficiency and potential of this strategy in discovering the genetic basis of rare diseases, which could lead to new therapies.
A new study found that a mastery motivational climate, emphasizing teamwork and positive communication, influences children's achievement goals in sports. Coaches who use this approach promote greater enjoyment, lower sport anxiety, and improved retention rates among young athletes.
Researchers at the University of Washington have developed Open Data Kit, a versatile platform for collecting, storing, and analyzing mobile data. Organizations worldwide are using it to gather information on global health, environment, and human rights issues, enabling evidence-based decision-making.
Stress-evoked changes in serotonin-regulating brain pathways can lead to low mood and cocaine-seeking. Researchers found that the dynorphin/kappa opioid system, activated by stress or chemicals, weakens serotonin levels in the nucleus accumbens.
A new study has found that pregnant women with a history of depression who use psychiatric medication are at increased risk of delivering prematurely. The research analyzed data from nearly 3,000 women and showed that medication use and depression were strongly linked to preterm delivery before 35 weeks' gestation.
Researchers documented tsunami-caused erosion in the Kuril Islands and found that waves can carry away nearly 50 times more sand and soil than they deposit. The study provides detailed insights into the scope of tsunami-induced erosion and its relationship with wave force and topography.
Researchers found evidence of two breeding seasons among five songbird species in western Mexico, challenging previous understanding of bird migration patterns. The discovery reveals that some birds take advantage of the monsoon season to raise young and then continue their journey.
Two University of Washington studies show that drinking alcohol doubles the risk of non-adherence to HIV medication. A third study found that peer support, electronic pagers, or both had no lasting impact on adherence rates. The challenges of adhering to life-long HIV treatment highlight the need for individualized comprehensive programs.
Scientists at the University of Washington and North Carolina have made a breakthrough in converting methane to methanol, a liquid that can be transported easily. This discovery could lead to more efficient and environmentally friendly production of chemicals and fuels.
A recent study published in BMC Pediatrics found that persistent sucking habits in infants, such as pacifier or bottle use, may lead to difficulty producing certain word sounds and simplifying pronunciation in preschool children. Delaying introduction of baby bottles until at least 9 months old can reduce the risk of speech disorders.
Researchers found that an intervention called IMPACT improved depression symptoms, quality of life, and functional impairment in older cancer patients. After six months, 55% of IMPACT participants showed a 50% or greater reduction in depression symptoms.
In a field study, University of Washington researchers found that juvenile song sparrows learn their repertoire by eavesdropping on singing conversations between two adult birds. This process involves tracking the birds' movements and responses to recorded bird songs played over two speakers.
Researchers discovered that tropical paper wasps' brain structures alter to tackle complex tasks, integrating sensory inputs. The brain's dendrite network grows in complexity as the wasps transition from nest work to foraging, adapting to new environments.
Researchers at the University of Washington discovered security weaknesses in three popular household robots, including WowWee Rovio and RoboSapien V2. The study highlights the need for improved robot security and privacy measures to prevent misuse by bad actors, who can exploit these vulnerabilities to harm users or their environments.
University of Washington researchers have made significant improvements in engineering heart repair patches from stem cells, connecting to rodents' heart circulation with pre-formed blood vessels. The new patches successfully delivered rat blood to the transplanted graft, showing remarkable viability and functional capabilities.