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University of Michigan


Educate yourself to boost achievement in kids

A University of Michigan researcher suggests that parents who acquire higher education can significantly boost their children's academic achievement. The study found a strong correlation between parental education and language ability in children, with the impact remaining significant even after controlling for other factors.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalMerrill-Palmer Quarterly·DateAug 6, 2009

Music is the engine of new U-M lab-on-a-chip device

Researchers at U-M have developed a lab-on-a-chip device that uses sound waves to drive experimental samples through the device. This innovation replaces traditional electromechanical valves with resonance cavities, amplifying specific musical notes to create air pressure controlling droplets.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 22, 2009

Lasers can lengthen quantum bit memory by 1,000 times

Researchers at the University of Michigan have discovered a method to prolong quantum bit memory by utilizing lasers. By exciting the quantum dot with a laser, scientists were able to block magnetic field interactions and stabilize the magnetic field, resulting in a significant increase in stable existence of the quantum bit.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalNature·DateJun 24, 2009

Playing video games for better, not worse

Researchers conducted three studies across different countries, age groups, and approaches, finding a strong correlation between playing prosocial games and increased helpful behavior. The studies suggest an upward spiral of prosocial gaming leading to improved prosocial behavior.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·DateJun 17, 2009

Small molecules mimic natural gene regulators

Researchers at the University of Michigan have developed small molecules that mimic the behavior and function of a natural regulator of gene expression, binding to a key protein and promoting gene activity. This breakthrough could lead to new approaches for treating diseases caused by errors in gene regulation.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalACS Chemical Biology·DateJun 3, 2009

Why dishing does you good: U-M study

A University of Michigan study identified a likely reason why dishing with a girlfriend does wonders for a woman's mood: increased levels of the hormone progesterone. Progesterone, linked to social bonding, boosted well-being and reduced anxiety in women who engaged in emotionally close tasks.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalHormones and Behavior·DateJun 2, 2009

Snail venoms reflect reduced competition

A University of Michigan study found that snails' venoms evolved to target a broader array of prey when they experienced ecological release, allowing them to expand their diet and habitat. The research provides insight into the genetic basis of this phenomenon and its implications for our understanding of adaptation and evolution.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 20, 2009

Prison punishes more people than just the inmates

A study by University of Michigan researchers found that people with a family member or friend in prison experience worse physical and mental health, stress, and depressive symptoms. This toll affects African Americans disproportionately due to higher rates of incarceration.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalProgress in Community Health Partnerships Research Education and Action·DateApr 22, 2009

U-M researcher's idea jells into potential new disease-detection method

Researchers at the University of Michigan have developed a new method to detect nitric oxide in exhaled breath, a potential indicator of diseases such as lung cancer and tuberculosis. The technique uses molecular gels that congeal when exposed to nitric oxide and oxygen, allowing for simpler and less subjective detection methods.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMar 22, 2009

Shade coffee benefits more than birds

Researchers found shade coffee farms support widespread dispersal of native trees, preserving genetic diversity and sheltering native wildlife. The study highlights the ecological benefits of traditional agriculture in promoting biodiversity and connecting habitat patches.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalCurrent Biology·DateDec 22, 2008

Are men hardwired to overspend?

A University of Michigan researcher found that men who overspend on consumer goods have higher mating intentions and past success in attracting mates. The study suggests an evolutionary link between financial consumption and mating behavior, with men competing for status and resources to attract partners.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalEvolutionary Psychology·DateDec 8, 2008