A new WSU study reveals that medical students receive little or no formal training in end-of-life care, leading to confusion and unwanted treatment. Researchers advocate for integrated educational interventions across the medical school curriculum to address this critical gap.
A low-cost, simple robotic apple picker arm developed by Washington State University researchers can pick an apple in about 25 seconds. The inflatable arm is made of a soft fabric filled with air and weighs less than 50 pounds, making it safe to use in orchards.
Research from Washington State University found that decentralized platforms encourage stronger emotions and less self-censorship, leading to more candid and emotionally rich reactions. This can have implications for companies and marketers looking to understand consumer concerns and make informed decisions.
Researchers at Washington State University have found a way to modulate a key interaction that allows herpes viruses to enter cells. By targeting this critical interaction, they were able to significantly block the virus' ability to invade cells, paving the way for potential new antiviral treatments.
A recent study published in Neuropsychopharmacology found that rats with higher natural stress levels are more likely to self-administer cannabis. The study also identified links between stress hormone levels and cognitive flexibility, suggesting potential early markers for problematic drug use patterns.
A review of scientific literature reveals that artificial beaver dams can make waterways more resilient to climate change, increasing water storage and enhancing flood-plain connectivity. The practice has shown promise in improving fish habitat and contributing to fish-population growth.
A WSU study found that reducing activity in a neural circuit drives relapse after opioid use. The team used chemogenetics and optogenetic approaches to reduce heroin-seeking behavior, with the latter being nearly twice as effective.
Researchers found that corporate insiders' trading patterns provided excellent forecasts of future stock performance during the Covid-19 pandemic. Insiders bought undervalued stocks and sold overvalued ones, which predicted market activity. This study highlights the importance of insider trading in times of unprecedented uncertainty.
A Washington State University-led study suggests that college students who binge drink have more permissive parents and join fraternities or sororities. Parents with less restrictive attitudes toward drinking are also more likely to have children who engage in heavy episodic drinking.
Researchers discovered that pneumococcal vaccination reduced colonization rates of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in children, while rotavirus vaccine showed inconclusive results. Factors such as environmental exposure and yogurt consumption also influenced colonization rates.
Researchers developed a wearable sensor to track thoroughbred horse movements and identify risk factors for catastrophic injury. The study found that horses with high risk scores were 44 times more likely to suffer fatal injuries, and implementing the technology could reduce fatal injury rates by nearly 20%.
A Washington State University-led study in Guatemala found that community perceptions of water safety often do not align with actual water quality. Bottled water was found to be the most frequently contaminated source, with only 17% meeting World Health Organization standards.
Researchers discovered hidden symbols on ancient Roman glass cage cups that identify collective workshops and artisans. These 'makers' marks' provide a new perspective on the craftsmanship behind these intricate vessels.
A seven-year study reveals that marginal lands, like abandoned golf courses, can support diverse bee populations. The study found 118 confirmed species, with nearly half belonging to the globally common Halictidae family.
A new study finds that college women ages 18-24 are 74% more likely to experience sexual violence than non-college women. The highest prevalence was among women living on-campus, with an estimated 1 in 100 reporting an instance of sexual violence.
The WSU-led team created antennas that remain stable when bent or exposed to high humidity, temperature variations, and salt. They also developed a processor chip that can correct errant signals in real-time.
A WSU-led study has discovered two promising cover crops that can be sold as a biofuel source and won't harm the soil. Triticale and hairy vetch showed promising results in Western and Central Washington fields, providing stable yields at low costs while adding nitrogen to the soil.
A WSU project improved medication lists for Spokane home health care agency patients, reducing high-risk heart failure hospitalizations by more than half. The initiative trained clinicians to evaluate medications like pharmacists and streamlined reconciliation processes.
A WSU study reveals that positive framing of product attributes increases preference for higher-priced options. Consumers tend to see a stronger link between price and product attributes when the relationship is framed positively.
A community-managed forest in Guatemala's Maya Biosphere Reserve supports a rich variety of medium-to-large mammals and birds comparable to those in protected national parks. However, some vulnerable species avoid areas with high human access, revealing subtle, cryptic disturbances that ripple through the forest.
A WSU-led study shows firearm-related deaths are increasing dramatically among high school youth, with 3,224 deaths in 2022 compared to 1,945 in 2001. The research highlights the need for adapted firearm safety guidance tailored to developmental stages.
Researchers at Washington State University found that early planting to avoid heat damage may actually hinder spring wheat productivity due to other growth issues. The study used computer modeling to show that moving crop plantings earlier in the season can expose crops to elevated heat or cold stress in later growth stages.
A WSU study found that over half of Sudan Ebola survivors suffer from debilitating health problems two years post-infection. The virus can persist in semen and breast milk for up to six months after recovery, raising concerns about transmission risks.
Researchers at Washington State University have discovered that altering brain function in the cerebellum region can ease physical and emotional symptoms of alcohol withdrawal. The study used genetic tools and a synthetic compound to achieve this, offering a promising new approach to treating alcohol use disorder.
Researchers from Washington State University suggest a link between bacterial peptidoglycan and the regulation of sleep in mice. The study found that peptidoglycan is present in different locations within the brain and changes with time of day and sleep deprivation.
A new WSU study found that in India's Great Indian Demonetization, political identity played a significant role in shaping entrepreneurial responses. Lower-income entrepreneurs often adopted out of necessity, while those aligned with the ruling party quickly embraced digital payments due to perceived credibility and consistency with th...
A Washington State University-led team has designed a robotic harvester that can detect and classify hidden strawberries 80% of the time. The harvester uses a combination of artificial-intelligence vision system, soft silicone grippers, and a fan to gently move leaves out of the way, improving picking efficiency.
A new WSU study found that local communities were not overwhelmed by COVID-19 cases linked to returning students. The study suggests mitigation efforts like testing and social distancing limited the spread of the virus.
WSU researchers developed a mathematical model to optimize liquid hydrogen storage tank operations, identifying areas where boil-off losses occur and proposing changes to minimize them. By refining the process, they aim to make hydrogen a cleaner and more feasible fuel source for transportation and industry.
A recent study led by Washington State University found that carrying bacteria resistant to critical antibiotics is strongly linked to visiting health clinics or hospitals. Urban residents and households without trash pickup were also more likely to carry the bacteria.
Washington State University researchers developed an AI model that can accurately identify everyday activities from smartwatch data, achieving an accuracy rate of 78%. This breakthrough has potential applications in assessing cognitive health, rehabilitation, disease management, and surgical recovery.
Researchers at WSU have identified the biological mechanism behind coho salmon die-offs linked to tire preservative 6PPD-quinone. The toxin disrupts the blood-brain and blood-gill barriers, causing oxygen deprivation, which is fatal to the fish.
A study by Washington State University researchers analyzed over 100 picture books for children ages 3-8 and found gaps in teaching concepts of consent. While many books conveyed important messages like bodily autonomy and boundary-setting, they fell short on specific anatomical terms, trusted adults, and empowering language.
A national survey conducted by Washington State University researchers found that young men with a
New research reveals how disease-causing bacteria navigate human intestines, shedding light on potential treatments for intestinal infections. Bacteria are attracted to indole, a stinky chemical that helps fertilize the gut, rather than repelled by it.
A new study by Washington State University researchers reveals declining groundwater levels across Eastern Washington's complex aquifer system, threatening its sustainability. The study measures the water accessible to current wells and highlights areas of greatest concern, such as the Odessa region and Yakima Basin.
A new study found that customers overwhelmingly reject gratuity requests made prior to service, leading to negative attitudes towards tipping. However, the researchers discovered that making customer-service efforts visible can offset these reactions and improve decision satisfaction.
Researchers at Washington State University discovered how bacteria hijack cellular processes in ticks to ensure their survival and spread to new hosts, including humans. By manipulating the ATF6 protein, the bacteria exploit the tick's natural process of producing cholesterol, which is essential for bacterial growth and survival.
A WSU-led study identifies associations between prenatal factors and childhood obesity, revealing distinct BMI trajectories in children. The research found that children with mothers who smoked during or had high BMIs before pregnancy showed rapid weight gain starting from age 3.5 years.
Researchers developed an electrochemical catheter hub that produces antimicrobial hypochlorous acid to kill off common bacteria responsible for hospital infections. The system could significantly reduce bloodstream infections, a major cause of death in North America and Europe.
A new study found that cannabis edibles with bright colors and labels like "locally made" or "vegan" can make teens think they are healthy snacks. The research suggests that teens are drawn to the design and packaging, seeing them as trendy, natural, and aspirational.
Researchers studied merbecoviruses, closely related to MERS-CoV, and found one subgroup, HKU5, has concerning traits that could allow it to infect humans. The viruses use a host receptor known as ACE2, which is also used by SARS-CoV-2.
A team of researchers from Washington State University has recreated the world's oldest synthetic pigment, Egyptian blue, used in ancient Egypt around 5,000 years ago. By studying the pigments' properties and variability, they have gained insights into how it was made and its potential applications.
A new study from Washington State University examines the role of emotional responses in shaping public attitudes toward self-driving cars. Researchers found that feelings of excitement and curiosity, as well as beliefs in technology's social benefits, play a significant role in determining whether people would adopt autonomous vehicles.
Washington State University researchers used microwave technology to create shelf-stable hummus without chemical preservatives. Lentil-based hummus retained 75% of vitamin C after treatment, offering a healthier alternative. The innovative process allows for predictable and rapid heating of pre-packaged food.
New research from Washington State University finds that helpers' emotional expressions can influence whether their assistance is welcomed or resentful. Helpers who express emotions like gratitude and sympathy are more likely to foster trust and future collaboration, while those who display pride or contempt have their motives questioned.
Researchers at Washington State University identified several wild spinach varieties with resistance to Fusarium wilt, a persistent problem for commercial spinach seed growers. These findings can be used to breed hardier crops through marker-assisted selection, providing a tool for immediate application in breeding programs.
Researchers at Washington State University have developed a new 3D printing method for smart fabrics that improve comfort and durability. The technology uses biodegradable materials and a more environmentally friendly process, allowing fabrics to withstand repeated washings and abrasion tests.
Researchers at Washington State University discovered that juvenile European green crabs can cause significant damage to shellfish, native eelgrass, and the ecosystem. The study found that even young crabs can crack into immature shellfish with ease, challenging current removal techniques.
A Washington State University-led team developed a low-cost paper sensor that can rapidly detect personal smoke exposure during wildfires. The sensor, paired with a custom smartphone reader and app, allows users to scan their urine for wildfire biomarkers and quantify their exposure levels in real-time.