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Research to uncover the impact of water use in the Colorado River Basin

A new study by Virginia Tech researchers reveals that agricultural demand for water is significantly higher than cities, with crops used for feeding cattle being the largest consumers. The researchers also found that reservoir levels are dropping due to overuse and climate change, highlighting the need for efficient water use strategies.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalNature·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 28, 2024

International graduate and postdoctoral trainees in biomedicine are struggling with career confidence, study says

A new study found that international and female trainees reported lower career-self-efficacy across the national sample. The study highlights how immigration status intersects with individuals' perceptions of their own capabilities, influencing their career trajectories and opportunities for advancement.

Re-calibrating the sail plan for Native Hawaiians, Pacific Islanders in ocean sciences

A team of authors from the University of Hawaii at Manoa identifies gaps in programs aimed at increasing participation of Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders in ocean sciences. They highlight successful programs like the SOEST Maile Mentoring Bridge and The MEGA Lab, which prioritize culturally centered spaces and community involvem...

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalOceanography·TypeCase study·DateJan 2, 2024

Post-doctoral scientists are effective mentors for graduate students; this article discusses how failures to properly credit them for this role has negative consequence for everyone, and suggests possible solutions

Properly crediting post-doctoral scientists for their mentorship role is vital for the success of graduate students. The article highlights how neglecting to do so can have far-reaching negative effects on individuals and the scientific community.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateNov 2, 2023

Can soil microbes survive in a changing climate?

A recent study by the University of Miami found that most soil microbes are either multidimensional generalists or specialists, adapting to various environmental conditions. Generalist microbes can withstand a wide range of conditions, while specialist microbes are sensitive to changes and play key roles in community organization.

SourceUniversity of Miami·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateAug 18, 2023

Duct tape evidence holds up in court using innovative method from WVU forensic scientists

Forensic scientists at West Virginia University have developed a systematic approach to compare pieces of trace evidence, including duct tape, using a novel method. The technique evaluates fracture edges and demonstrates physical fit, providing a foundation for evaluating error rates and improving accuracy in crime scene investigations.

SourceWest Virginia University·JournalForensic Chemistry·DateAug 2, 2023

LSU Health New Orleans researchers discover potential new rx strategy for ischemic stroke

LSU Health New Orleans researchers found that a combination therapy using Neuroprotectin D1 and Resolvin D1 boosted brain cell survival, growth, and stability. The therapy showed promising results in reducing lesion volume and improving neurological function in acute ischemic stroke models.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalCellular and Molecular Neurobiology·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 6, 2023

HETDEX reveals galaxy gold mine in first large survey

Astronomers have cataloged over 51,863 Lyman-alpha-emitting galaxies, 123,891 star-forming galaxies, and 4,976 active galactic nuclei using HETDEX's spectroscopic data. The survey is a non-targeted, moon-sized survey that collects spectra from 35,000 fiber optic cables, providing a unique dataset for future galaxy mapping.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 9, 2023

Inner ear has a need for speed

Researchers have discovered a unique, fast synapse in the inner ear that processes signals faster than any other in the human body. This breakthrough could lead to improved treatments for vertigo and balance disorders affecting millions of Americans over 40.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 18, 2023

New study shows scientists improve communication, education skills after working with teachers

A new case study shows that scientists who worked with K-12 teachers improved their communication skills, gained a better understanding of teaching, and wanted to continue K-12 outreach. The study also found that these partnerships had a positive impact on the quality of lesson plans and classroom management.

SourceFlorida Museum of Natural History·JournalEvolution Education and Outreach·DateDec 20, 2022

Jawbone may represent earliest presence of humans in Europe

A new analysis of a 45,000-65,000 year old fossil mandible from Spain suggests it may be the earliest documented presence of Homo sapiens in Europe, rather than a Neandertal. The study used CT scanning and 3D modeling to analyze the fossil's shape and features, finding that it shared characteristics with both humans and Neandertals.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalJournal of Human Evolution·TypeImaging analysis·DateDec 6, 2022

UC fosters student-led research on Latinx mental health

A University of Cincinnati study explores how anti-immigration policies affect Latinx mental health, finding increased depression, anxiety, and behavioral difficulties among affected communities. The research also identifies coping mechanisms that help individuals overcome these challenges.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalAnalyses of Social Issues and Public Policy·TypeLiterature review·DateOct 22, 2022

BU study: removing GRE requirement does not undermine student success

A recent Boston University School of Public Health analysis reveals that eliminating the Graduate Record Examination as an admissions requirement increased applicant diversity, with notable increases in African American and Hispanic applicants. Student performance remained unchanged, with no declines in academic quality or graduate emp...

SourceBoston University School of Public Health·JournalPublic Health Reviews·TypeSystematic review·DateOct 5, 2022