Researchers have developed a unique approach to trapping platinum atoms, reducing the need for expensive platinum in chemical reactions. The new method uses cerium oxide to create nano-scale traps that keep platinum atoms stable, improving catalyst efficiency and performance.
Researchers at WSU have developed a multifunctional smart material with shape memory behavior, light-activated movement, and self-healing properties. The material can fold, unfold, remember its shape, and heal itself in response to heat or light.
A new software tool, RepeatAnalyzer, has been developed to track and catalogue short repeating sequences of bacterial DNA, improving scientists' ability to identify and understand bacterial strains. This technology could significantly accelerate vaccine development for tick-borne bacteria such as Anaplasma marginale.
Researchers found that statins reduced the risk of infections in stroke patients by 58%, particularly when administered early. The study controlled for various factors, including severity of strokes and age, and suggested that anti-inflammatory properties may play a role.
Washington State University researchers created a simple sensor that can detect and amplify the signal of E. coli 0157:H7, a harmful pathogen causing severe diarrhea and kidney damage. The biosensor uses a nanoflower particle with organic and inorganic components to recognize and amplify the bacteria's signal.
Researchers at Washington State University have observed skin cells altering proteins and moving to repair wounds, a process that could be manipulated to speed up healing. They found that the cells use their internal muscle-related proteins to generate forces needed to move, allowing them to 'walk' to the wound site.
Research suggests that coordinating chemotherapy treatments with the time of day when a patient's body is most awake can minimize drug toxicity and increase anti-cancer therapeutic drug efficacy. This approach targets the circadian clock, which regulates certain signaling pathways to regulate drug metabolism.
A WSU biologist has spent 20 years studying the movement of nutrients through plants, confirming an 86-year-old hypothesis about phloem transport. His research could lead to new strategies for fighting plant diseases and improving crop efficiency.
A new study published in Environmental Research Letters found that greenhouse-gas emissions from lakes and inland waterways may be up to 45% greater than previously thought. The researchers used a yearlong series of continuous measurements to gather data, revealing higher nighttime emissions and storms creating spikes.
Researchers at Washington State University developed an algorithm that enables non-expert users to train virtual robots, mimicking animal training methods. The system uses user feedback to improve robot performance and adapts to different teaching styles.
Researchers at Washington State University and Harvard University have discovered a critical mechanism that enables bacteria to efficiently infect the gut. The 'type III secretion system' directs bacterial traffic, controlling whether bacteria become trapped inside vacuoles or break out into cell fluid.
A new assessment tool has been developed to gauge the risk of patients with mental illnesses committing crimes, improving upon the current evaluation system. The tool aims to strike a balance between patient rights and freedoms and public safety, facilitating quicker evaluations and hospitalizations for high-risk patients.
Researchers developed a new mathematical model to predict how US forests will respond to climate change, finding that the Northeast's mixed forests will be unsustainable by 2050. The Tolerance Distribution Model can identify which forests are at risk and suggest measures like planting drought-tolerant seedlings to prepare.
Carrot pulp is being used to create puffed snack foods with increased fiber and nutritional quality. The research found that adding the pulp increases puffiness without affecting taste or texture.
Researchers at WSU have developed a method to improve the performance of conductive plastic, which can be used in devices that interface with the human body. The material is biocompatible and can detect faint signals from neurons, enabling medical breakthroughs such as limb reanimation.
A study published in the Journal of Managed Care Pharmacy found that patients receiving pulmonary medications showed a significant decrease in emergency room visits and hospitalizations after using the Spokane Prescription Assistance Network. However, those receiving psychotropic medications for mental health conditions saw an increase...
Researchers at Washington State University will use new modeling techniques to predict air pollution changes in the western US due to climate change. The study will focus on small particulate matter, a major contributor to health issues like asthma and lung cancer.
Researchers at WSU analyzed data from 1,000+ archaeological sites and 30,000 tree-ring dates to understand the impact of droughts on Pueblo societies. They found four periods of boom and bust over five centuries, with each period marked by significant cultural changes and social upheaval.
Researchers at Washington State University are investigating new drugs to treat neurological disorders related to autophagic dysfunction. The goal is to selectively activate autophagy, recruiting 'housekeepers' to the brain and potentially regenerating the system.
Research by WSU's Joyce Ehrlinger and colleagues found that those with a fixed mindset about intelligence tend to be overconfident, while growth mindset holders are more accurate in their self-assessment. This imbalance can lead to poor decision-making and missed learning opportunities.
The research team improved cell voltage by shifting away from a standard processing step using cadmium chloride. This approach enabled the fabrication of CdTe solar cells with an open-circuit voltage breaking the 1-volt barrier for the first time.
Scientists create a computer simulation that grows realistic forests down to individual trees to predict how climate-related changes will affect fire rates, plant growth, and forest recovery in Quebec hardwood forests. The 'LES' model can help identify necessary species for reestablishing forests after wildfires and other disturbances.
Researchers at Washington State University are developing a computer model and designs for improved liquid transport systems using capillary forces to move liquids through narrow spaces in space. By studying the effects of viscosity in microgravity, they aim to conserve energy and enable longer space missions.
Researchers identified a potential new approach to combating rheumatoid arthritis by blocking the effects of the disease using epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), a molecule with anti-inflammatory properties found in green tea. The compound markedly reduced ankle swelling in an animal model of human rheumatoid arthritis.
Researchers found that about 170 of the extremophilic fish's genes were turned on to detoxify and remove hydrogen sulfide, a toxic compound in their environment. This discovery opens doors to new insights into evolutionary processes, adaptations, and potential biomedical applications.
WSU researchers found that the APOBEC protein can cause genetic mutations in actively replicating DNA, leading to cancer. The study reveals how tumors benefit from the protein's activity, which could inform new treatments targeting its activity.
Researchers studying the Aka pygmies found that teaching is an innate aspect of human behavior, with adults giving infants sharp objects to learn a skill. The study's findings suggest that teaching occurs naturally in small-scale groups and may be essential for human learning.
A review of 40 years of science shows organic farming can produce sufficient yields, protect the environment and be safer for farm workers. Organic production can also be more profitable for farmers and create less waste.
A study by Washington State University found that black men's cumulative experiences over time motivate them to develop valuable skills in IT careers. These experiences give them a type of capital that is often less available to other groups, influencing their career choices and outcomes.
A recent study spanning 40 years examined the 'question-behavior effect,' finding that asking people about performing a certain behavior influences whether they do it in the future. The effect has been shown to last more than six months after questioning, making questioning a simple yet effective technique to influence human behavior.
A study of 235 lakes across six continents found that they are warming at an average rate of 0.61 degrees Fahrenheit per decade, outpacing ocean and atmospheric warming rates. This rapid warming can lead to increased algal blooms, reduced oxygen levels, and changes in aquatic life.
Researchers at Washington State University developed a catalyst that easily converts bio-based ethanol to isobutene, a widely used industrial chemical. The breakthrough could help reduce environmental impacts and meet new regulations for sustainability in the chemical industry.
A rising trend in narcissism may require firms to rethink their marketing strategies by offering customizable products. Studies show that narcissistic consumers desire uniquely designed items and are willing to pay more for them.
Researchers found a categorical distinction between people who are heterosexual and those who are not, with notable mental health issues among non-heterosexuals. The study's findings support biological hypotheses of sexual orientation and challenge the notion of homosexuality as a lifestyle choice.
Researchers at Washington State University have developed an antibiotic-free alternative to treat bacterial infections, using electrical stimulation that kills 99.99 percent of bacteria in 24 hours. The method involves passing an electric current over a film of bacteria, producing hydrogen peroxide as an effective disinfectant.
A $2.5 million federal grant is being used to examine the ACA's effect on working-age adults with disabilities, tracking changes in health insurance coverage, access, and cost. The study aims to ensure the legislation is meeting its promise and addresses potential challenges faced by this vulnerable population.
Economically disadvantaged, non-English speaking Latino immigrant neighborhoods are disproportionately exposed to toxic air pollution in the US. Liévanos' study reveals a one-in-three chance of high-level air pollution in these areas.
Researchers at WSU will collaborate with Botanisol to study TAI-LCx, a newly identified active component of turmeric, and develop better means to isolate it. Early research showed TAI-LCx to be effective at reducing inflammation using biologic pathways different from NSAIDs.
Washington State University researchers have developed a unique protein cage to deliver chemotherapy directly to cancer cells, showing promising results in killing over 70% of lung cancer cells. The system selectively targets cancer cells without attacking healthy cells, potentially reducing side effects.
Washington State University researchers created a sensing platform to measure and analyze gait patterns in people with glaucoma. This innovation aims to reduce falls and injuries by detecting early signs of the disease, such as slower walking pace and unequal step placement.
The WSU researcher will investigate genetic markers in UGT enzymes that indicate an increased risk of lung and head and neck cancers from tobacco smoke exposure. The study aims to develop personalized approaches to medicine and cancer treatment by understanding the detoxification pathway.
A Washington State University study found that a yoga program for incarcerated fathers improved their parenting skills, physical health, and mental well-being. The program, called Fit Fathers, Successful Families, Inside and Out, also aimed to prevent child abuse and reduce recidivism by enhancing parents' resilience.
A new study reveals that viewers of 'Law and Order' have a better grasp of sexual consent than those who watch other crime dramas, suggesting a link between punishment of sexual predators and reduced predatory behavior. The study explores the influence of watching crime drama franchises on attitudes towards sexual consent.
A WSU study suggests linking isolated wildlife sanctuaries by a national network of protected river corridors to provide animals with connected habitats. The research builds on existing environmental policies, including the Clean Water Act and Endangered Species Act.
Researchers at Washington State University found that consumers are skeptical of hotels' green initiatives when they perceive self-serving motives, but still participate in eco-friendly practices. Hotels can establish credibility by becoming certified by independent agencies and communicating their green programs to customers.
A Washington State University study links US political polarization to the deregulation of television news following the 1996 Telecommunications Act. The researchers found that increased use of TV news is associated with higher levels of polarization, highlighting the role of media consolidation in perpetuating partisan divisions.
A Washington State University researcher is building a comprehensive family audio database with funding from the National Science Foundation. The database will combine recordings of children's communications with their parents and siblings, enabling researchers to study family communication dynamics and disorders in greater detail.
Researchers at Washington State University have discovered a way to stretch metal films used in flexible electronics without breaking. By using indium, a fairly inexpensive metal, they were able to create a metal film that could be stretched to twice its original length.
Researchers at Washington State University discovered that altering the timing of an animal's sleep can have a significant impact on its immune response and overall sleep quality. The study found that mice with disrupted circadian cycles had blunted or overactive immune responses, making them more susceptible to illness.
Washington State University Tri-Cities associate professor Hanwu Lei received a $494,000 grant to research catalysts for high-energy biofuels. He aims to convert biomass into aromatic hydrocarbons with industrial applications.