A team of researchers, including University of Michigan paleontologists, has discovered a new species of herbivorous sauropod dinosaur, Abydosaurus mcintoshi. The fossilized remains, found near the Carnegie Quarry in Dinosaur National Monument, provide valuable insights into the evolution of these massive creatures and their diets.
A nearly complete fossilized snake from India, Sanajeh indicus, has been discovered coiled around a sauropod dinosaur egg and a freshly hatched hatchling. The find provides critical information about the early diversification of snakes and how they evolved to eat large prey.
A study by a University of Michigan researcher found that treadmill training can help infants at risk for neuromotor delays walk on the same trajectory as normal children. The intervention reduced toe-walking in affected infants and showed a critical window for improvement between 10-18 months.
Researchers Ivette Perfecto and John Vandermeer argue that small family farms in tropical regions can provide a better way to meet both food production and biodiversity preservation goals. They propose an alternative model, the matrix quality model, which enables plants and animals to migrate between remaining forest fragments.
Researchers at the University of Michigan are exploring plug-in hybrid electric vehicles that can store electricity from the grid or generate it, making them a potential solution for storing excess energy. The team aims to understand how these vehicles can influence the reliability and stability of the electrical grid.
Researchers at the University of Michigan developed an artificial foot that recycles energy wasted in between steps, reducing energy spent per step by 14% compared to conventional prosthetic feet. This innovation could significantly improve walking efficiency for individuals with lower limb amputations.
Researchers developed a new approach to track mercury's movement through Arctic ecosystems using a 'fingerprint' method. The study confirmed mass-independent fractionation occurs during sunlight-driven reactions in snow, allowing for the estimation of mercury loss and retention.
Researchers at the University of Michigan have developed a millimeter-scale, energy-harvesting sensor system that can run for nearly perpetual periods using solar power. The system's low-power processor and innovative voltage conversion method enable it to consume less than 1 nanowatt of power on average.
Researchers at the University of Michigan have shown that small mechanical forces can control gene expression by reducing DNA looping, a common mechanism for gene regulation. The study provides new insights into how cells regulate themselves and could lead to new understandings of diseases such as cancer and cardiac disease.
A new study by researchers at the University of Michigan found that echolocating bats and whales share a similar molecular mechanism for this ability, overturning conventional thinking on convergence. The research focused on the prestin gene, which plays a crucial role in hearing and amplifying sounds.
Researchers developed a device that gently rocks embryos during in vitro fertilization (IVF), improving pregnancy rates in mice by 22%. The procedure may lead to significantly higher IVF success rates in humans, reducing the incidence of twins and triplets.
A strip of paper infused with carbon nanotubes can quickly and inexpensively detect microcystin-LR, a chemical compound produced by cyanobacteria, found in nutrient-rich waters. The biosensor works by measuring the electrical conductivity of the nanotubes in the paper, changing their conductivity when the toxin is present.
The study reveals that RNA molecules' 3D shapes are dictated by their junctions, similar to how anatomical features define arm motion. The researchers also found that drug molecules interact with RNA in predictable ways, with size being a key factor in determining the preferred orientation.
A study published in the Journal of Infectious Diseases found that each additional 1.1 pounds of birth weight decreases tuberculosis risk by 46% among identical twins. The association is stronger for males, with an 87% reduced risk, and sheds light on the developmental origins of health and disease.
Researchers Steven Skerlos and James Winebrake argue that government subsidies for plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) should be tailored to specific locations and consumer characteristics. They found that PHEVs are most effective in areas with low-carbon fuel production, high driving volumes, and poor air quality.
Researchers found that HdeA lets go of unfolded proteins gradually, allowing them to refold instead of clumping together. This unique mechanism allows HdeA to harness energy from the environment, making it a more efficient chaperone.
Researchers have discovered changes in the collagen component of bone that directly relate to bone health. The study uses atomic force microscopy to measure key features of collagen fibrils and found that normal bone contains a distribution of collagen fibril spacings, whereas diseased bone has a different spacing distribution.
A University of Michigan research team analyzed 47 embryonic stem cell lines and found they lacked genetic diversity, with most derived from northern and western European ancestry. The lack of diversity raises concerns about unequal access to therapies for certain groups.
A new study reveals that at least 1,250 and possibly more venomous catfish species exist, with North American species using their venom mainly to defend against predatory fish. The research also sheds light on the evolutionary origins of catfish venom glands.
Researchers at the University of Michigan have discovered a way to stabilize proteins by linking their stability to antibiotic resistance in bacteria. This method enables easy selection for stabilizing mutations, rendering proteins more resistant to unfolding and increasing their practical utility.
Scientists at the University of Michigan discovered that certain pyramid shapes can spontaneously organize into intricate quasicrystals without any external interactions. This finding could lead to the development of new materials with unique properties, such as optical properties useful for communication and stealth technologies.
A new study led by the University of Michigan reveals that polar bears get their nutrition from two main food webs: phytoplankton-based and ice algae-based. The research found that those who primarily eat phytoplankton have higher mercury concentrations, highlighting the importance of understanding Arctic ecosystems.
Researchers explored how changes in water content affect bone's structure and dynamics, revealing dynamical structural changes in collagen. The study's success enables future research into atomic-level behaviors of bone under different conditions.
Researchers discovered a new antioxidant system that shields single cysteine residues from oxidative harm, reducing cancer and heart disease risk
Researchers developed an Android app called PowerTutor to help users compare the power consumption of different applications. The app provides real-time information on how phone components use power, enabling users to make informed decisions about their device's energy efficiency.
Scientists at the University of Michigan have determined the atomic-level structure of a SEVI precursor and found it damages cell membranes to make them more vulnerable to HIV infection. The study provides insights into how SEVI interacts with cell membranes, which may help in developing new treatments for AIDS.
A new study by University of Michigan researchers found that people with less education are more likely to get H1N1 and the flu vaccine may be less effective in them. The study suggests that lower socioeconomic status can make it harder for adults of all ages to fight off new infections.
Researchers at the University of Michigan have developed hybrid molecules that can regulate copper-induced amyloid-beta aggregation, disrupting clump formation and breaking up existing clumps. The new compounds also hold promise in treating Alzheimer's disease and may be able to cross the blood-brain barrier.
A University of Michigan study found that color differences in fruit flies have a common genetic basis with those in humans and chimps. Genetic analysis revealed the tan gene as responsible for part of the color variation within and between species.
A new University of Michigan study reveals that employees with metabolic syndrome (MetS) and associated chronic disease can incur healthcare costs up to $5,867 annually. Employers can prevent these conditions by implementing health risk appraisals and prevention programs, which cost as little as $150 per year.
A University of Michigan survey found that the cost of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) is a significant predictor of purchase probabilities, even more so than environmental considerations. Economic factors, such as willingness to pay for fuel savings and price premiums, played a crucial role in consumer attitudes towards PHEVs.
Researchers at the University of Michigan have found that genes involved in fin regeneration and heart repair are also required for rebuilding damaged light receptors in the eye. The study suggests that a common molecular mechanism guides the process, no matter what body part is damaged.
Researchers found that individual wasps benefit from being recognizable, as they are less likely to be targeted in aggressive encounters. This finding suggests that diversity may promote group stability, extending beyond wasp societies to potentially influence human facial variation and social interactions.
University of Michigan mathematicians have identified the signal sent by the brain to control biological rhythms, a finding that challenges the long-held theory about our internal clock. The discovery could lead to breakthroughs in treating sleep problems and diseases influenced by the internal clock.
Researchers analyzed a fossilized tracksite in southern Africa, discovering how early dinosaurs adjusted their movements to cope with slippery and sloping terrain. The study provides insight into the later evolution of the group, highlighting differences in walking styles between ornithischians and theropods.
Coal outbursts in underground mines are among the major killers, but scientists have long been investigating their precise mechanism. New research suggests that coal outbursts occur through a process similar to explosive volcanic eruptions, driven by high gas pressure inside coal.
Researchers created the first atomic-scale maps of quantum dots, providing detailed information about their structure and chemical makeup. This breakthrough enables controlled fabrication and manipulation of quantum dots for various applications in computing, energy and technology.
Researchers at the University of Michigan have developed brain implants coated with conducting polymer nanotubes, which can record neural signals better than conventional metal electrodes. The new implants may eventually lead to more effective treatment of neurological disorders like Parkinson's disease and paralysis.
A University of Michigan study found that life expectancy rose by 6.2 years during the Great Depression, surprising experts. Researchers discovered this increase occurred for both men and women across racial groups, likely due to reduced stress, sleep, and substance abuse in recessions.
A recent commentary suggests that the US should spend more on researching the impact of climate change on public health due to current underfunding. The analysis highlights the need for increased funding to address heat-related deaths, diarrheal diseases, and other health issues exacerbated by global warming.
A University of Michigan study found that older Americans are experiencing a rapid change in work expectations, with more expecting to work past age 65. The study also revealed significant financial losses, including a decline in home values and stock market exposure.
Researchers have developed a new method to detect early signs of oxidative stress in cancer, which can be used to tailor treatments. The method identifies sulfenic acid in proteins, a marker of oxidative stress, and reveals that different individuals and tumor types have unique redox profiles.
Researchers at the University of Michigan have identified a gene called IKKE that acts as a master switch to control obesity in mice. Deleting this gene also appears to protect mice against conditions associated with Type 2 diabetes and obesity.
A small molecule called DAz-2 helps identify over 190 proteins involved in diverse biological processes affected by reactive oxygen species (ROS). The tool will aid in understanding chronic oxidative stress and its role in diseases.
A new study finds that chronic job insecurity has a stronger negative impact on worker health than smoking or hypertension. Persistent job insecurity weakens bonds between employers and employees, fueling perceptions of insecurity.
A new study from the University of Michigan found that working too many hours in the wrong environment can lead to teenagers dating older partners, which is associated with riskier sexual behavior and STDs. High self-esteem and low alcohol use can offset the negative effects of excessive work hours.
A University of Michigan study analyzed 23-year patterns in weight-related activities among 17,314 young adults, revealing consistent disparities in health behaviors by gender, race, and socioeconomic status. The study found that young women exercised less than men, while black and Hispanic women had lower fruit and vegetable consumption.
Researchers have created a new technology that allows for the localization of nanoliter droplets of reagents over cells in high-density arrays without physical walls or dry substrates. This enables the use of hundreds of times less reagent and maintains cell viability in wet environments, revolutionizing gene expression studies.
A University of Michigan study found that banning phosphorus-containing lawn fertilizers led to a significant decrease in phosphorus levels in the Huron River. Phosphorus levels dropped by an average of 28% after Ann Arbor adopted the ban, suggesting that ordinances can be effective in reducing pollution.
A study published in PNAS reveals that a period of global warming from 53-47 million years ago led to a biodiversity boom in western North America, with many new species of mammals appearing. However, as temperatures declined, diversity decreased and many mammalian groups went extinct.