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University of Michigan


Racism not an issue in firing of NBA coaches

A new study by the University of Michigan found no evidence of racial bias in the firing of NBA coaches. The research showed that African-American coaches were fired at the same rate as their white counterparts, and that technical efficiency had no difference between the two groups.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalInternational Journal of Sport Finance·DateMay 14, 2008

Mouse can do without man's most treasured genes

Researchers found that 22% of essential human genes are nonessential in mice, and this discrepancy affects waste management. The study's results suggest that efficient waste management became increasingly important as life span increased in humans, making certain genes more essential.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 14, 2008

No place like home: Katrina's lasting impact

A study found that severe housing damage is a key factor behind socioeconomic disparities in psychological distress after Hurricane Katrina. The research also revealed that blacks were substantially more likely to experience serious psychological distress, with almost one-third reporting high levels of distress.

U-M study: Work hassles hamper sleep

A University of Michigan study finds that work hassles, such as psychological strain and conflicts with coworkers, are more likely to interfere with sleep than long hours or job insecurity. Respondents who experienced these stressors were more than 1.7 times as likely to develop sleep problems.

Safer, easier system for remote explosive detection

Researchers at the University of Michigan have created materials that can detect TNT and alert to its presence remotely, reducing danger for military personnel. The system uses low-cost, battery-free sensors that emit light when excited by infrared light, which is then detected by a specially-designed light-collection system.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalNanotechnology·DateApr 9, 2008

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