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.
Researchers at Washington State University have discovered a new way to produce sugar from corn stalks and other crop waste using an ammonium sulfite-based alkali salts process. This method allows for the efficient conversion of cellulosic biomass into sugar, making it a potentially cost-competitive alternative to traditional methods.
New research from Washington State University finds that customers are more resistant to sales pitches in private settings than public ones. Increasing physical distance between salesperson and customer can reduce feelings of reactance and improve engagement.
Researchers at Washington State University found that animals exposed to ticks developed resistance, dramatically shrinking the tick population. This natural immune response could be replicated through a vaccine, offering new insights into tick ecology and dynamics.
Researchers at Washington State University have discovered a hybrid zinc telluride-based material that undergoes structural changes when subjected to pressure, making it a strong candidate for phase change memory. The material's layered structure and directional sensitivity open the door to additional uses in photonics.
Scientists developed a nutritionally complete feed to sustain honey bee colonies, containing all necessary nutrients. The new food source thrived in field trials, reducing colony mortality and increasing survival rates.
Researchers at Washington State University have developed a protective barrier made of corn protein to improve the performance of lithium-sulfur batteries. The addition of corn protein significantly improved the battery's lifespan, allowing it to hold its charge over 500 cycles.
A new study led by Washington State University archaeologist Tim Kohler challenges traditional views that disparities in wealth emerged suddenly with large civilizations. The research found that wealth inequality started to increase roughly 1,500 years after the advent of agriculture, driven by population growth and competition for land.
Researchers developed a new modeling method that estimates customer interest beyond completed transactions and traditional forecasting techniques, providing a more precise way to understand demand. The approach helps businesses optimize operations and improve decision-making by reconstructing missing pieces of the demand picture.
Researchers found that hot car exhaust can improve the efficiency of catalysts by forming nano-sized clusters on their surface, increasing reaction sites and oxygen activation. This serendipitous discovery could lead to more efficient catalysts with significant cost savings.
A new probing technique allows researchers to observe the surface of iron reacting with oxygen in real time, revealing key factors that influence catalyst performance. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient development of new materials and systems.
Washington State University researchers develop a method to recycle wind turbine blades without harsh chemicals, recovering high-strength glass fibers and resins. The recycled materials are then reused to create stronger plastics, with enhanced performance and potential applications in various industries.
A new study found that sending young women twice-daily text messages prompting them to reflect on fitness content significantly reduced social comparison, a key mechanism contributing to poor body image. However, the study also found no significant change in body appreciation scores.
The model analyzes host characteristics and virus genetics to predict potential reservoirs for orthopoxviruses, including smallpox and mpox. It identified Southeast Asia, equatorial Africa, and the Amazon as hotspots, overlapping with areas of low vaccination rates.
A study by Washington State University found that therapy cats exhibit similar behavioral traits to therapy dogs, such as high sociability and attention-seeking. The research suggests that expanding AAS programs to include felines could make therapy more accessible to a wider range of people.
A new study from Washington State University finds automated insulin delivery systems safe and effective for older adults with type 1 diabetes, improving glucose control and reducing burden. The hybrid closed loop system proved most effective at keeping blood sugar in target range.
A new Washington State University study reveals that wineries producing 'cult wines' can increase long-term profits by keeping prices low, creating excess demand. The study found that scarcity pricing, where products are priced below market equilibrium, leads to increased demand and higher revenue for winemakers.
First-year college students who interacted with therapy dogs on campus experienced lower stress and depression levels, increased self-compassion, and improved mental well-being. The study suggests that unstructured access to therapy dogs can provide sustained mental health benefits.
A Washington State University study explores the role of nostalgia and comfort in prepared meals for older adults. The research highlights the significance of texture variety and cheese flavor in increasing appeal, with participants preferring foods that evoke a sense of warmth and familiarity.
Researchers at WSU have developed value-added pancakes using whole grain flours like buckwheat, quinoa, and millet, increasing fiber and protein content. The study found that these flours can be incorporated into pancake recipes without compromising taste or texture.
Researchers at Washington State University have created genetically engineered mice with human-like short telomeres, enabling the study of cellular aging as it occurs in humans. The new mouse model, called HuT mice, has significant implications for anti-aging research and cancer treatment.
A new Kentucky bluegrass variety, 'Matchless', has been commercially released by Washington State University, offering higher yields and reduced environmental impact. The variety was bred to eliminate the need for field burning, a practice banned in Washington state due to air quality concerns.
Researchers at Washington State University discovered that wandering salamanders use a unique mechanism to control blood flow in their toe tips, enabling them to optimize attachment and detachment on irregular surfaces. This discovery has implications for bioinspired designed, including the development of adhesives and prosthetics.
A Washington State University-led research team has developed a plant-based substitute for fossil fuels in polyurethane foams, which are used in various products. The bio-based foam is as strong and flexible as typical polyurethane foam, making it a promising sustainable alternative.
A team of scientists at Washington State University has developed a new method for storing volatile hydrogen using lignin-based jet fuel. The technology could make it easier to harness hydrogen's potential as a high-energy and zero-emissions fuel source.
A recent Washington State University-led study reveals that forestalgia-focused destination ads are more effective at enticing travelers to book vacations than nostalgia-based ads. The research found that travelers respond more favorably to future-focused messages, tapping into a natural human tendency to idealize what's ahead.
A recent study found that both men and women with greater upper body strength tend to have more lifetime sexual partners. Despite theories suggesting men's strength is linked to reproductive success, the research suggests that physical strength may play a role in mating success for both sexes.
A clinical trial found that drinking elderberry juice daily for a week improved glucose tolerance and fat oxidation. The study also showed positive changes in the gut microbiome, with increased beneficial bacteria and decreased harmful bacteria.
Researchers at Washington State University developed a new technique to identify harmful salts forming in nuclear waste melters, which could help improve clean-up technology at the Hanford Site. The method uses optical and electrical components to detect changes in thermal emissions, allowing for real-time monitoring of salt formation.
The study analyzes 40 years of climate data to identify trends in six metrics impacting apple growth, including extreme heat and cold days. The top three largest apple producing counties in the US are among the most impacted, with Yakima County facing significant challenges.
A study by Washington State University found that ChatGPT struggles with nuanced financial tasks, even when compared to human professionals. The AI model performed well on broad concepts but showed significant inaccuracy on specialized topics such as determining clients' insurance coverage and tax status.
A national study found that walkable neighborhoods increase walking by 23% due to factors like density of people, roads, and amenities. Living in a walkable area also reduces the chance of no transit use, while vigorous exercise is not necessarily linked to neighborhood walkability.
A Washington State University-led study found that individuals with more long-distance friends are significantly more likely to participate in sustainable fisheries management activities, such as beach cleanups and reporting illegal fishing practices. The research highlights the potential benefits of building cross-community relationsh...
A study published in Environmental Epigenetics found that pregnant women with preeclampsia had distinct epigenetic modifications, potentially serving as a biomarker. The researchers hope to develop a cheek swab test to detect these risks earlier, allowing for preventative medicine treatments.
A new Washington State University study reveals that teens' perceptions of parent cannabis use shape their attitudes towards the drug and intentions to try it. The research highlights the crucial roles of parental monitoring and closeness in adolescents' views on cannabis.
Researchers observed microfiber plastics tumbling, rolling, and getting stuck in soil particles, revealing slow movement and potential trapping. The study improves understanding of exposure risks and possible health impacts of widespread plastic pollutants.
Researchers at Washington State University have discovered a way to accelerate ions in mixed organic ion-electronic conductors, setting a new world record for ion speed. This breakthrough could lead to improved battery charging, biosensing, and neuromorphic computing.
A Washington State University-led study found that cultural knowledge is transmitted through a complex network of relationships, with non-related adults playing a significant role. This approach to learning enables the preservation of cultural traits and innovation over time.
A deep learning AI model can identify pathology in images of animal and human tissue much faster and often more accurately than people, potentially revolutionizing disease-related research and medical diagnosis. The model was trained using images from past epigenetic studies and showed accuracy comparable to human experts.