A University of Michigan study found that brains detect wins and losses within a third of a second, triggering subsequent decision-making. The research suggests that losses loom larger than gains in the brain's neural activity, influencing future choices.
Researchers used experiments and mathematical modeling to understand seismic wave behavior in the lower mantle, finding that mineral grain alignment causes unusual wave behavior. The study provides a window into Earth's inner workings and is an important step toward integrating seismology and geodynamics in the lower mantle.
A University of Michigan study found that adolescent girls who feel confident about their physical abilities enjoy exercise more than those who doubt their skills. The research, led by Nola Pender, suggests that girls' perceptions and responses to exercise are linked to their confidence levels, with more confident girls reporting less ...
A new study from the University of Michigan reveals how a duplicated gene in leaf-eating monkeys has evolved to improve digestion efficiency. The researchers found that the duplicated gene allows the monkeys to better cope with an acidic environment, suggesting a key adaptation to their unusual diet.
A new study by University of Michigan researchers finds that JCAHO hospital accreditation does not correlate with patient outcomes, highlighting the need to review the current system for ensuring quality in US hospitals. The study also suggests that the JCAHO system prioritizes structural measures over newer performance metrics.
The University of Michigan School of Education has received a $175,000 grant from the Goldman Sachs Foundation to evaluate and support programs promoting educational excellence globally. The program focuses on developing academic abilities and entrepreneurial talents in underrepresented youth.
Researchers at the University of Michigan have developed a new tissue engineering method that uses a polymer to encourage the formation of healthy blood vessels in living rats. The approach, which combines VEGF and PDGF growth factors, shows promise for treating coronary artery disease and speeding up wound healing.
A University of Michigan study found that female rats exposed to estrogen and cocaine showed increased sensitization, leading to faster craving and lower doses. The effects persisted even after the hormone was removed.
A University of Michigan study tracked weight changes among over 10,000 adults for 13 years, finding that about 51% of men and 55% of women remained in the same weight category. The study also revealed a significant 'yo-yo diet effect,' with nearly one-fifth of children aged 2-12 being overweight or at risk.
The symposium explores the effects of genetics research on social organization, human nature, and what it means to be human. Experts discuss race, ethnicity, genes, and human potential, with a focus on values, ethics, and social impact.
Researchers analyzed growth bands in Antarctic scallop shells to understand climate change, finding a long-term warming trend since the early 1950s. The study also reveals seasonal temperature variations and the impact of glacial meltwater on coastal waters.
Researchers found that regular treadmill exercise with parents can help children with Down Syndrome walk three and a half months sooner than those without therapy. This early mobility improves independence and reduces stress for parents.
A two-year study is examining how safety net organizations in Michigan adapt to the current environment, focusing on survival strategies and policies. Researchers aim to understand what works and doesn't work, as well as provide recommendations to improve healthcare services for vulnerable populations.
A University of Michigan study found that older Americans with dementia receive substantially more informal help than those with normal cognitive function. The analysis estimated the additional time and associated costs of providing informal care to be $18 billion annually.
Researchers are using innovative noninvasive techniques to study the developing central nervous system in early iron deficiency, which affects brain development and behavior. The study aims to understand the ties between the brain and behavior, with potential implications for creating more effective interventions.
A team of researchers from the University of Michigan has created an ultrafast X-ray switch, enabling them to study the movement of constituent atoms and obtain information about molecular dynamics. The technology could be used to probe complex systems like proteins and study shock waves in materials.
The National Science Foundation has established FOCUS, a Physics Frontier Center at the University of Michigan, to advance coherent control in quantum, ultrafast, and high-field physics. The center will focus on three major research components: High Field Control, Ultrafast Control, and Quantum Control.
The University of Michigan has received a five-year, $3.7 million award from the National Science Foundation to improve opportunities for tenure-track women faculty in science and engineering fields. The project aims to address the slow increase in women faculty numbers over the past decade.
Researchers at the University of Michigan found that generic drugs have stabilized at about 40% of prescriptions, despite growing market share. The team suggests therapeutic interchange as a viable solution to balance cost-cutting with effective medication.
A new research initiative aims to understand the reasons behind oral health disparities among low-income African American children and their caregivers. The study will examine social characteristics, dietary habits, lead levels, and dental caries to identify risk factors for poor oral health.
The University of Michigan School of Nursing is introducing a new concentration in care for frail and elderly patients, addressing the complex needs of this vulnerable population. Students will explore the holistic effects of frailty on physical, psychological, and social aspects of quality of life.
Researchers at the University of Michigan developed a new technique combining coherent nonlinear optical spectroscopy and near-field microscopy to detect quantum coherence in extended structures. This breakthrough enables sub-wavelength resolution, bringing nanotechnology closer to sophisticated devices.
New fossils found in Pakistan have revealed a close kinship between whales and hippos, with the discovery of artiodactyl ankles suggesting that hippos may be a side line of artiodactyls. The findings, published in Science, use immunological, molecular, and genetic techniques to explore relationships among groups of animals.
Scientists have long known that Earth's core is primarily composed of iron, but the cause of seismic waves traveling faster in certain directions was unclear. Recent studies using supercomputer simulations revealed a temperature-dependent alignment of crystal structures in the inner core, shedding new light on this phenomenon.
Researchers will use shake tables, centrifuges, and tsunami wave tanks from desktop workstations to conduct experiments. The virtual laboratory, NEESgrid, will connect researchers and facilities across the US, fostering collaboration and accelerating seismic design and hazard mitigation.
Research by University of Michigan cognitive neuroscientist Patricia Reuter-Lorenz found that older adults activate both hemispheres of the brain to perform memory and information processing tasks. This bi-hemispheric processing may help compensate for age-related short-term memory and mental speed declines.
A study of 350 men and women found that mental aging begins in the 20s with continuous declines in processing power. By mid-60s, people may notice a decline in everyday activities. An increase in experience and knowledge can compensate for losses until age 50.
Scientists have discovered a natural method to track Atlantic salmon using strontium isotopes, which can reveal the fish's origin and migration patterns. This discovery could provide valuable insights into salmon habitat restoration efforts and inform more effective conservation strategies.
A study by University of Michigan doctoral student Miroslav Kummel found that plants associate with different fungi depending on light conditions, suggesting a choice-based mechanism for nutrient exchange. This discovery could have implications for the timber industry and our understanding of plant-fungus interactions.
Research by Ricardo Carvajal at University of Michigan found a decline in epiphytes on coffee farms with intensive practices. However, even in most intensive plots, 'reservoirs' where epiphytes thrive were discovered, suggesting potential for conservation through targeted planting.
Scientists at University of Michigan developed a new approach to date shallow faults, essential for understanding the evolution of Earth's crust and fault processes. The technique provides precise ages within a couple of million years, narrowing down previous estimates that spanned many million years.
The Michigan Media Award for Excellence in Coverage of Women and Gender recognizes outstanding media coverage of issues concerning women. This year's winners, Susan Ferraro (New York Daily News) and Women's E-news, were selected for their excellent coverage of women's health care issues and neglected topics.
Researchers at University of Michigan and Northwestern University emphasize the importance of social and organizational readiness, technological readiness, rewards and incentives, and finding time in collaboratories. These factors enable effective collaboration and innovation in scientific practice.
A University of Michigan study finds that ancient human fossils from Australia and Europe show distinctive characteristics to an older African population, contradicting the 'Eve theory'. The research suggests that multiple groups of humans survived and thrived globally, rather than a single ancestral group replacing others.
A new study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation reveals that a protein called parvalbumin can improve heart function in laboratory rats by restoring normal relaxation rates. The researchers hope to one day use this protein as therapy for progressive heart failure, a growing medical problem affecting millions of Americans.
Researchers at U-M and Norway have found a way to reconcile paleomagnetic data with the classical Pangea A model. The key lies in assumptions about Earth's magnetic field, which revealed long-term non-dipole fields that produce a near-perfect continental fit.
University of Michigan geologist Peter van Keken uses virtual reality to explore Earth's inner reaches, discovering new patterns and relationships. He aims to advance research into plate tectonics and mantle mixing using this immersive technology.
The University of Michigan has been awarded $47.8 million in grants from the Michigan Life Sciences Corridor, with U-M scientists leading 24 research proposals approved for funding. The funds will support life sciences research and economic development throughout the state.
According to a University of Michigan study, teen cigarette smoking rates have declined significantly since the '90s. The Monitoring the Future survey found that 8th-12th graders showed statistically significant declines in current and daily smoking measures.
This year's Monitoring the Future study found a significant rise in ecstasy use among American adolescents, with proportions increasing by 50-100% across all grade levels. In contrast, inhalants, LSD, and crystal methamphetamine use have declined substantially since their peak levels in the mid-1990s.
A University of Michigan study found that men living in urban areas were 62% more likely to die than those in suburbs or rural areas. The excess mortality risk was most significant for infections and tumors, suggesting exposure to hazardous urban environments and stress.
Scientists at the University of Michigan have discovered that Yersinia pestis, the bacterium that causes bubonic plague, uses an ancient agent to sever vital cell signaling pathways. This mechanism is shared by both plant and animal bacteria, including those that cause black rot and other diseases.
Researchers analyzed data from over 7,000 men and women in their 50s and 60s and found that obesity was associated with significantly lower net worth for middle-aged women. The economic cost of obesity on women's wealth is substantial, ranging from $135,670 in 1998 for moderately to severely obese women compared to non-obese peers.
Researchers have discovered a method for producing silicon-based chemicals from sand, rice hull ash, and antifreeze, reducing the need for expensive high-temperature processing and toxic by-products. The new process enables the creation of novel compounds with potential pharmacological activity, such as wound healing and hair growth.
University of Michigan professor Rodney Ewing argues that the Nuclear Regulatory Commission's method for assessing the Yucca Mountain site's safety is flawed due to large uncertainties. He proposes a more comprehensive approach by evaluating independent barriers, such as canisters and rock layers, to ensure the site's long-term safety.
The University of Michigan has thoroughly investigated the book 'Darkness in El Dorado' by Patrick Tierney and found that major claims are false. The university confirms that Dr. Neel's medical care was humane and medically appropriate, and the measles outbreak occurred before his arrival.
Scientists have discovered genetic mutations causing hereditary lymphedema-distichiasis, a condition characterized by severe fluid retention and double rows of eyelashes. The FOXC2 gene on chromosome 16 is responsible for the mutations, which can also lead to heart defects, spinal abnormalities, and cleft palate.
A new study revealed that seasonal temperature changes, specifically colder winters, contributed to the Eocene/Oligocene mass extinction. Researchers analyzed otoliths from fish that survived the event, discovering a 4-degree Celsius drop in winter temperatures.
A University of Michigan professor suggests that flu vaccines should be administered when available to prevent lost work days and reduce physician visits, even if not cost-effective for working adults. The vaccine may have a greater impact on the elderly, who are more prone to complications.
Researchers at the University of Michigan have discovered a powerful new antibiotic candidate, PD 404182, which is 10,000 times more effective than other known inhibitors of a key enzyme in Gram-negative bacteria. The compound targets KDO 8-P synthase, essential for bacterial cell surface formation, and shows promise in weakening bacte...