Researchers use human white blood cell membranes to carry drugs directly to infected lungs in mice, successfully treating bacterial growth and inflammation. The nano-sized drug delivery method shows promise for treating infectious diseases, including COVID-19.
States with high rates of high school football participation and limited gender equality resisted implementing concussion regulations, while those with higher female labor force participation adopted them earlier. Researchers found a significant correlation between SEC affiliation and resistance to concussion legislation.
A study led by Washington State University found that nurse practitioners significantly increased access to buprenorphine prescriptions in rural Oregon after gaining prescribing authority. In frontier regions, they accounted for nearly a third of all buprenorphine prescriptions dispensed.
Researchers Alli Cramer and Stephen Katz identified two key variables: gross primary production and substrate mobility, which sort biomes by their energy flow and ocean floor movement. This new classification system sheds light on the diversity of marine environments and highlights areas where human actions may impact ecosystem function.
A WSU study found that UV light induces new types of DNA damage that may cause malignant melanoma, supporting its role in cancer development. Researchers discovered rare mutations linked to melanoma in irradiated yeast cells, expanding previous understanding of UV damage.
Researchers found a correlation between household chemicals and reduced bacterial diversity in children's guts. The study suggests that exposure to semi-volatile organic compounds may impact human health, with potential implications for probiotic interventions.
A Washington State University study found that workers experiencing job and financial insecurity are less likely to follow CDC guidelines for COVID-19 prevention. Economic concerns, particularly low unemployment benefits, were associated with a decline in compliance with these guidelines.
A recent study by Washington State University's Bidisha Mandal found that the Affordable Care Act's Medicaid expansion program has reduced the number of uninsured low-income residents, particularly in rural areas. However, the likelihood of repeated emergency room visits for non-urgent reasons has not decreased.
Researchers recommend that healthcare providers discuss cannabis use with patients who have chronic pain and are using opioids. This conversation should be routine and judgment-free. The goal is to understand the patient's priorities and develop a plan based on evidence-based information.
Reports of racial discrimination against Asians and Asian-Americans have increased since the COVID-19 pandemic, coinciding with an increase in reported negative health symptoms. A survey of over 400 people found that almost 30% experienced more discrimination and 40% reported more health impacts.
A recent study found that very rural areas in the US have significantly fewer mental health services for young people, with only 3.9% of rural ZIP Codes having facilities that serve youth. This lack of access exacerbates the already high suicide rate among rural youth, highlighting the need for increased resources.
Research from Washington State University found that adolescent males associate cannabis use with improved sexual activity, leading them to express intentions to use marijuana. In contrast, female peers were less swayed by similar messages.
Researchers at Washington State University have discovered mavacamten, a molecule that suppresses excessive force generated by hyper-contractile muscle cells in the human heart. The drug reduces maximal force of contraction by nearly 20-30% compared to controls, suggesting its potential as a treatment for hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.
Researchers argue music's primary function is to signal attention to infants, while also forming alliances with groups. This theory challenges existing music origin theories, including social bonding and auditory cheesecake hypotheses.
A new study by Washington State University researchers found that improving sleep after trauma exposure can improve function and alleviate PTSD symptoms. The study used optogenetic stimulation to increase REM sleep in rats, leading to improved memory extinction and reduced freezing behavior. This suggests that manipulating sleep immedi...
Washington State University scientists developed a method to detect Alzheimer's disease biomarkers in blood, 10 times more sensitive than current technology. The artificial enzyme, called a nanozyme, can detect the biomarkers at levels lower than commercial ELISA tests.
A Washington State University study found that cannabis use reduced OCD symptoms by 49% and anxiety by 52% within four hours. The study also linked higher CBD concentrations to larger reductions in compulsions.
A new study by neuroscientists at Washington State University found that regular cannabis exposure in rats during pregnancy may cause long-term cognitive deficiencies, asocial behavior, and anxiety in their offspring. The research also revealed significant behavioral changes and cognitive deficits that persisted into adulthood.
A team of researchers has discovered the atomic-level mechanism that governs the length of heart muscle protein filaments, a critical component in maintaining healthy heart function. The study provides new insights into genetic mutations that cause devastating hereditary heart conditions.
A study of twins found that one in four adults changed their alcohol use almost immediately after stay-at-home orders were issued, with 14% reporting higher levels of stress and anxiety. The study suggests a link between decreased drinking and increased mental health issues, highlighting the need for better support.
A study found that men are less empathetic towards temporary agricultural laborers and less concerned about food supply and production as national security issues. However, during the COVID-19 pandemic, attitudes shifted towards increased empathy and concern for food security.
A recent study found that regular exposure to marijuana advertising on storefronts and billboards increased the likelihood of adolescents using marijuana. Location of retail stores also played a role, with participants who lived close to shops being more likely to report intentions to use the drug.
A study by Washington State University scientists has identified two dozen exoplanets that could potentially support complex life. These superhabitable planets are characterized by being older, slightly warmer, and possibly wetter than Earth, with some orbiting stars that may be more suitable for life than our sun.
Researchers found that star-shaped brain cells, astrocytes, change dynamically across sleep-wake cycles and play a role in regulating sleep need. Astrocyte calcium activity increased during rest phases when sleep need is greatest, suggesting an essential role in sleep regulation.
The study predicts the Asian giant hornet's potential spread in the US, including down the west coast, and globally to parts of Africa, Europe, Australia, and South America. Suitable habitats include regions with warm summers, mild winters, and high rainfall.
WSU researchers have developed a new approach using soy-based compounds to reduce bone cancer cell viability and promote healthy bone cell growth. The slow release of these compounds from 3D-printed scaffolds showed promise in reducing inflammation and improving overall recovery.
A Washington State University study found that private prisons lead to an average increase of 178 new prisoners per million population per year. The length of sentences also increases, especially in nonviolent crimes with more leeway in sentencing guidelines.
Scientists have created pigs, goats, and cattle with the ability to produce sperm carrying only donor animal traits, enabling selective breeding and improving food production. This technology has great potential for genetic conservation of endangered species and addressing global food insecurity.
A study published in American Political Science Review found that Facebook political ads were more partisan and less negative than TV ads in the 2018 campaign season. Social media was a more practical option for many candidates due to its affordability, with nearly 6,000 candidates using only Facebook ads.
Research from Washington State University found that COVID-19 stress and anxiety can persist despite increased physical activity. The study of twins revealed no significant impact of exercise on handling stress and anxiety in the short term, suggesting other factors may be at play.
A recent study found that FoMO is linked to loneliness, low self-esteem, and low self-compassion, not social media use. Researchers suggest addressing negative self-perceptions by practicing self-compassion and focusing on real connections.
A new study by Washington State University scientist Raven Weaver found that older adults living in very rural settings are less likely to receive available services compared to those in mostly rural areas. The study highlights the most vulnerable groups within the rural classification, emphasizing the need for proactive support.
The study reveals how iron can be used to remove oxygen from plant materials without oxidizing, enabling more efficient and cost-effective fuel production. By anchoring iron with a carbon structure modified with nitrogen, the researchers created a catalyst that interacts less with oxygen, allowing for robust reaction performance.
A nationwide study on COVID-19 and infant feeding is exploring whether breast milk can protect babies from the virus. Researchers will collect biological samples, interview participants, and compare outcomes between breastfed and non-breastfed babies to inform policy recommendations.
Research findings suggest poor hygiene is a significant risk factor for antimicrobial-resistant bacteria colonization. The study also highlights the importance of improving sanitation and hygiene practices to reduce the spread of AMR infections.
Customers with excellent dining experiences express the most dissatisfaction with automatic gratuities. Research found that high-quality service does not compensate for negative customer responses to non-voluntary tipping systems. Restaurants can explore ways to give customers a sense of control, such as providing feedback or adding se...
A decline in public plant breeding programs is threatening food security in the US, with a 21.4% reduction in full-time employee time over five years. The programs' focus on disease tolerance, production, and drought resistance will be lost if funding does not increase.
A recent study by Washington State University criminologist Kathryn DuBois found that women from small towns are most at risk of intimate partner violence, with a 27% higher likelihood of being victims compared to urban areas and 42% more likely than suburban women.
A recent study published in Genetics found a single genetic mutation in Tasmanian devils that leads to reduced growth of a transmissible cancer. The mutation is also implicated in human prostate and colon cancers, suggesting potential new treatment avenues.
A study published in Global Change Biology found that mountain stoneflies can tolerate warmer water temperatures at least temporarily. The insects may even be stressed in their current extremely cold environments, contradicting the prevailing theory that rising water temperatures will be devastating for them.
A study examining online user activity on two carding forums reveals the vast majority of users aren't buyers or sellers but rather seek free tutorials, malware source codes, and hacking guides. Actual buyers and sellers comprise a fraction, primarily using stolen identity info for unauthorized purchases.
A recent article in Nature Reviews Microbiology calls for more research into bats' molecular biology and ecology to predict and prevent the next pandemic. Bats carry a vast number of viruses, with evidence linking different species to human outbreaks of SARS, MERS, Ebola, and other diseases.
Researchers at Washington State University discovered a fatty acid called dihomogamma-linolenic acid (DGLA) that can induce ferroptosis in human cancer cells. This iron-dependent type of cell death has been linked to various diseases and may hold potential as a treatment for cancer.
A new software program can identify drug-resistant genes in bacteria with up to 90% accuracy. The WSU research team developed a machine-learning algorithm that uses features of AMR proteins to identify AMR genes, providing a more efficient way to predict antimicrobial resistance.
A Washington State University study found that 63% of pregnant women experienced 'stereotype threat,' leading them to conceal their pregnancy and take actions that harmed their health. The study highlights the need to address workplace stereotypes and provide support for pregnant employees.
Researchers identified Rhus glabra, a smooth sumac plant, as the first non-tobacco plant found in an archeological pipe. The discovery sheds light on ancient plant mixtures used by Native American tribes for ceremonial and medicinal purposes.
A new method using environmental DNA (eDNA) detection can efficiently monitor captive animals for pathogens, reducing the need for huge sample sizes and costly processes. eDNA sampling from tank water is more efficient than testing individual samples, according to Washington State University researcher Jesse Brunner.
A Washington State University study found that living in neighborhoods with high walkability, socioeconomic status, and age diversity may contribute to longevity. Researchers analyzed data on nearly 145,000 Washingtonians who died at age 75 or older between 2011 and 2015.
Researchers have discovered a compound, tartrolon E, that effectively kills multiple parasites responsible for various infections, including malaria, toxoplasmosis, and cryptosporidiosis. The compound is found in the gills of wood-eating clams and has shown promise in killing these parasites in vitro and in animal studies.
A recent study led by Washington State University's Carrie Cuttler found that cannabis reduces the severity of post-traumatic distress disorder (PTSD) symptoms by about 62% for intrusions, 51% for flashbacks, and 67% for irritability. However, the symptom reductions were not permanent.