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University of Michigan


Hidden art could be revealed by new terahertz device

Researchers at the University of Michigan have developed a new terahertz device that can reveal hidden artworks beneath layers of plaster or paint in centuries-old buildings. The device uses pulses of terahertz radiation to detect subtle changes in material, allowing for non-destructive imaging of artworks.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalOptics Communications·DateFeb 4, 2008

A good fight may keep you and your marriage healthy

A University of Michigan study found that couples who express their anger and resolve conflicts tend to live longer than those who suppress their emotions. Researchers analyzed 192 couples over 17 years and found that those who both suppressed their anger had a higher mortality rate, with twice as many deaths compared to other groups.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalJournal of Family Communication·DateJan 22, 2008

Older workers stress less, U-M study suggests

The study found that older workers generally reported low levels of work-related stress, with 47% agreeing that time pressures are a source of job stress. Workers who experience less job stress are more satisfied with their life and are overall in better physical health compared to those who report higher levels of job stressors.

New computer program automates chip debugging

Researchers at the University of Michigan have developed a new technology to automate post-silicon debugging, using puzzle-solving search algorithms to diagnose problems early on. This reduces parts of the process from days to hours, making it possible to produce computer chips that work correctly under all scenarios.

1 in 7 Americans over age 70 has dementia

A new study found that approximately 13.9 percent of the population aged 71 and older have some form of dementia, with Alzheimer's disease being the most common cause. The prevalence of dementia increased dramatically with age, from five percent of those aged 71 to 79 to 37.4 percent of those age 90 and older.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalNeuroepidemiology·DateOct 30, 2007

10 minutes of talking has a mental payoff

A University of Michigan study found that conversing with others for just 10 minutes can improve memory and cognitive function. The research suggests that social interaction is an effective way to boost mental abilities, comparable to traditional mental exercises.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·DateOct 29, 2007

Muscle patterns in women may be linked to at risk positioning for ACL tears

A new study suggests that training programs promoting balanced activity of the inner and outer thigh muscles may help protect the ACL from injury. The research found that women tend to activate their outer thigh muscles more than their inner thigh muscles when preparing to land from a jump, leading to a larger valgus knee angle.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalJournal of Electromyography and Kinesiology·DateSep 18, 2007

Not all risk is created equal

Researchers identified different areas of risk-taking based on ancestral challenges, finding that fertility risks are the least taken and social status-related risks are the most. Men were consistently more risk-takers than women across various domains.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalEvolutionary Psychology·DateAug 28, 2007

Frog plus frying pan equals better antibiotic

Researchers have created synthetic antibiotics called Teflon AMPs that are more resistant to bacterial defenses than their natural counterparts. These compounds mimic the immune system's early line of defense and show promise in battling a range of infections, including those caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

Does playing the brain/memory game really help?

Research by Cindy Lustig and David Bissig found that people who use smart strategies, such as studying more than testing, show large improvements in memory. Meanwhile, those who focus on testing without studying do poorly. The study suggests that the way people approach training is more important than age or initial ability.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalPsychological Science·DateAug 20, 2007