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University of Michigan


New research explains how HIV avoids getting ZAPped

A recent study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences reveals how the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) evades detection by the zinc-finger antiviral protein ZAP. Researchers found that HIV's RNA has evolved to mimic a specific sequence, allowing it to dodge ZAP's binding ability.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 11, 2019

Men who receive home care from spouse more likely to feel burdensome than women

A new study by University of Michigan researchers found that men who receive caregiving from their spouses are more prone to feeling guilty and depressed due to negative spousal exchanges. In contrast, wives in caregiving relationships show less susceptibility to these effects, suggesting a difference in gender dynamics.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalJournal of Social and Personal Relationships·DateNov 11, 2019

Voters agree with polls that favor their candidates

A new study by researchers at the University of Michigan and University of Pennsylvania indicates that individuals disproportionately find polls more credible when their preferred candidate is leading. The study suggests that emphasizing polls' methodological quality can lessen voters' biases, potentially benefiting democracy.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalInternational Journal of Public Opinion Research·DateNov 7, 2019

US-born residents more than 5 times likely to use prescription opioids than new immigrants

A new study from the University of Michigan and Dartmouth University found that US-born residents are significantly more likely to use prescription opioids than new immigrants. The study analyzed data from the national Medical Expenditure Panel Survey and found that US-born residents were more than five times as likely to use opioids a...

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateOct 29, 2019

Cracking the mystery of nature's toughest material

A team of researchers has revealed how nacre, the rainbow-sheened material lining mussel shells, achieves its remarkable hardness and resilience. By studying the nano-engineering process, they found that combining microscopic 'bricks' of aragonite with organic mortar enables strength without losing resilience, setting it apart from hum...

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 23, 2019

Too many older adults readmitted to hospitals with same infections they took home

A University of Michigan study found that 15% of older adults readmitted to hospitals within a month after discharge, with many returning for preexisting infections. Patients discharged home or to home care were more likely to return with linked infections than those discharged to skilled nursing homes, contradicting conventional wisdom.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateOct 23, 2019

How opt-out organ donation could affect US waiting lists

A new study from the University of Michigan suggests that an opt-out organ donation policy could alleviate some of the burden on US waiting lists, but its impact would be marginal. The researchers found that such a policy could potentially translate to large gains in life years for thousands of patients awaiting organ transplantation.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateOct 2, 2019

Commit a crime? Loved ones got your back

A recent University of Michigan study reveals that people tend to prioritize protecting close relationships over reporting immoral acts, even in cases of theft and sexual harassment. Researchers found that this bias can be attenuated by adopting a psychologically distanced perspective.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·DateSep 24, 2019

University of Michigan study indicates negative outcomes for Native American children who are spanked

A new University of Michigan study found that spanking is harmful for all three racial groups, despite cultural differences. Spanking at age 1 predicts child behavior issues at age 3, leading to more spanking at age 5. The study's findings highlight the need for discipline alternatives to spanking in Native American communities.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalJournal of Interpersonal Violence·DateAug 19, 2019

An 'EpiPen' for spinal cord injuries

The approach demonstrated in mice enhances healing by reprogramming aggressive immune cells to work for the body, reducing inflammation and promoting regeneration. This technology could lead to new therapeutic strategies for patients with spinal cord injury and inflammatory diseases.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 11, 2019

Seeing the doctor? Relax, you'll remember more

A new study found that patients who meditate or listen to calming music before receiving written health information are more likely to pay attention and retain the details. The researchers recommend using this time wisely by relaxing in the waiting room, such as meditating or listening to calming music.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·DateJun 24, 2019