The National Science Foundation-funded project aims to improve seismic design of buildings and infrastructure in the US. Researchers will collaborate using high-performance networking, shared databases, computer modeling, and simulation tools.
A new mathematical model developed by University of Michigan scientist Denise Kirschner shows how HIV accelerates the normal process of homing, diverting white blood cells from the bloodstream to the lymph system. This understanding is crucial for developing effective treatments and targeting therapeutic drugs.
Researchers at University of Michigan have developed polymers that release nitric oxide gas, mimicking human endothelial cells. The polymers can be used to prevent blood clots on biomedical devices and coat implantable blood sensors for continuous vital monitoring.
A new study reveals that gadolinium zirconate is highly resistant to radiation, outlasting ceramic materials currently considered for plutonium disposal by millions of years. This finding makes it a leading candidate for the immobilization of plutonium, a nuclear contaminant with a long half-life.
Researchers at the University of Michigan have identified a molecular switch, Wnt signaling, that inhibits fat cell development. By activating Wnt signaling, even muscle cells can turn into fat cells.
Researchers at the University of Michigan have identified a protein ligand-receptor pair that plays a crucial role in plant cell development. The discovery, led by Steven Clark, could lead to breakthroughs in increasing flower and fruit production, as well as controlling fruit timing.
The International Conference on Heavy Metals in the Environment will discuss successes and failures of research on human exposure to toxic metals. Major themes include risk assessment, environmental epidemiology, and human health effects, with a focus on protecting children from toxic metals.
Researchers developed an experimental drug that reversed the effects of Fabry disease in mice, reducing glycolipid levels and eliminating toxic side effects. The treatment has potential applications for other lysosomal storage diseases affecting thousands of people in the US.
Researchers have identified a sequence of amino acids found in fibronectin that accelerates healing of hard-to-treat skin wounds in obese, diabetic mice. The substance completely healed skin puncture wounds in eight days, compared to 20-42 days in untreated diabetic mice.
A study by Kermyt Anderson found that stepfathers invest significant amounts of money and time in their stepchildren. Despite initial assumptions portraying stepfathers negatively, the research suggests they gain mating benefits and opportunities for lifetime reproductive success.
Researchers at University of Michigan and Swiss Federal Institute of Technology propose alternative theory on Earth's formation. They found that tungsten isotopic compositions of Earth do not match those of enstatite chondrites, supporting the idea that planets received materials from broad regions of the solar system.
Researchers studied ancient sediment samples to understand Antarctica's past environmental changes and their impact on global climate. The findings suggest a complex relationship between ocean circulation patterns and ice sheet stability, contradicting previous desert-like conditions in the region.
Scientists at the University of Michigan School of Dentistry have developed a method to create bones from skin and gum tissue cells, which can be used to replace missing bone in living rats. The engineered cells not only deliver bone-forming proteins but also participate directly in bone formation.
A study by a University of Michigan School of Nursing professor found that moderate exercise can lower diastolic blood pressure in pregnant women, reducing the risk of developing gestational hypertension. The randomized trial involved 16 high-risk women who engaged in treadmill or bicycle exercise three days a week for 10 weeks.
Researchers have created a new liquid-phase protein separation technology that can help scientists solve the proteomics puzzle. The system eliminates time-consuming 2-D gel electrophoresis and can detect trace amounts of protein, providing valuable insights into cancer research and other areas of science.
The Ulysses spacecraft detected a dramatic change in solar wind and magnetic field lines, revealing comet tails that are likely billions of miles long. This finding opens up new ways to study comets and gain insights into the solar system's birth.
Researchers discovered two mutations in a sodium channel gene that regulate electrical activity in nerve cells, which may cause inherited forms of epilepsy. Genetic testing could identify at-risk infants and prevent seizures and neurological damage.
Researchers at the University of Michigan have created a new line of transgenic mice that spontaneously develop skin tumors resembling human basal cell carcinomas. The mice produce abnormally large amounts of Gli2 protein, which plays a key role in the development of these common skin tumors.
The solar system's ultimate fate is predicted to be a collapse of the sun into a white dwarf, incinerating the Earth and inner planets in the process. However, a close encounter with a passing star may rescue life by hurling the Earth out of the solar system.
The study confirms the complex origins of Native Americans by analyzing craniofacial measurements of old and new skulls from around the world. The results separate the native inhabitants of the Western Hemisphere into several different groups, including those descended from Asian groups such as the Jomon people of Japan.
A study of 616 middle-aged men from Finland found that those experiencing high levels of hopelessness were three times more likely to develop hypertension. The link between hopelessness and cardiovascular disease is considered a critical factor in increased risk, independent of other known risk factors.
A new study of borehole temperatures reveals that the 20th century was the warmest of the past five centuries, with Earth's temperature increasing about 1 degree Celsius since 1500. The analysis, which combined data from over 600 sites worldwide, found a greater warming trend in the Northern Hemisphere than previously estimated.
Researchers developed a non-toxic peptide that prevents metastatic prostate cancer from spreading to other organs in laboratory rats. The peptide, PHSRN, was effective even when primary tumors were allowed to grow before treatment began.
University of Michigan physicists have created a database that stores and retrieves data in atomic quantum phase, a new approach to data storage. The study uses cesium atoms and ultrafast lasers to store and retrieve data, confirming theoretical predictions made by L.K. Grover.
A team of astronomers led by University of Michigan professor Douglas Richstone discovered three new supermassive black holes in nearby elliptical galaxies. The formation and evolution of galaxies are linked to the presence of massive black holes, which played a crucial role in shaping galaxy development.
Researchers found that a short distance of 2.53 angstroms between iron atoms in peroxide-bridged ferritin intermediate favors biomineralization process over oxygen activation. The study uses analytical techniques to probe molecular structure and collaboration with experts from different disciplines.
The Monitoring the Future study found that overall illicit drug use among American teens remained steady in 1999, with only modest changes in various drug categories. Inhalant use continued its gradual decline, while crack cocaine use decreased significantly among younger teens. Conversely, MDMA use increased among older teens.
US teen smoking rates have declined gradually from their peak in the late 1990s, with a notable decrease among college-bound eighth- and 10th-graders. However, non-college bound students have shown little improvement, and social class differences in smoking rates are re-emerging.
The University of Michigan Medical School will receive a four-year, $4 million grant from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute to support its new bioinformatics program. The program aims to educate tomorrow's scholars in this emerging scientific field and develop next-generation bioinformatics tools.
Researchers developed a model that relates seismic velocity differences to properties of the mantle, shedding light on mantle evolution and its impact on plate movement, volcanism, and earthquakes. The study suggests temperatures high enough to cause melting in some regions, potentially explaining volcanic activity.
A study led by U-M scientist Lisa Curran found that El Nino triggers the reproduction of tropical forest trees, allowing them to survive and thrive. However, human activity such as logging is destroying the ecosystem, threatening the local economy and global exports.
Using brittle failure theory, University of Michigan researcher Youxue Zhang can calculate the likelihood of fragmentation for a given magma sample based on composition, water content, and temperature. This calculation may help predict when a volcanic eruption will become deadly.
A University of Michigan study found that older Americans with depressive symptoms are at a higher risk of developing new diseases within two years, comparable to those who smoke. Physical limitations and multiple symptoms of depression also significantly increase the likelihood of developing new disease.
Researchers at the University of Michigan have identified a key mechanism by which some viruses, including Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus, can hide in human cells for extended periods. The study reveals that a protein called LANA binds to host chromosomes, allowing viral DNA to remain dormant until the immune system is weakened.
Researchers at the University of Michigan have developed a new technique to accelerate ions, using a table-top laser instead of radio-frequency waves. The new technique accelerates ions in almost a million-times shorter distance than a cyclotron, potentially making ion accelerators more affordable and accessible for medical applications.
Researchers find substance use and dependence are significant problems among welfare recipients, but academic skill deficits are a greater barrier to self-sufficiency. Effective services addressing mental health needs and providing support for work barriers are crucial for successful fulfillment of family roles.
A recent study by Reg A. Williams highlights the significant economic impact of depression in the workplace, citing an estimated total cost of up to $44 billion. The study also identifies key risk factors for depression, including stress, negative changes in personal life, and difficulties in interpersonal relationships.
A University of Michigan study found that older adults tend to use the left front side of the brain, specifically the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, when performing concurrent tasks. This is a difference from younger adults who rely more on visual cortices for task switching.
A study by University of Michigan researchers found that living in segregated cities with high levels of poverty is associated with higher mortality rates, particularly for cancer. The analysis revealed a strong correlation between segregation and increased susceptibility to illness and death among both black and white populations.
A new U-M study examines 11 college campuses' efforts to promote racial harmony and identifies areas for improvement. The study's findings highlight the importance of sustaining programs after grants expire, as communication barriers can persist without continued effort.
A University of Michigan team found that applying repeated strain during tissue development increases the expression of key structural protein genes and improves cell organization, leading to stronger tissues. This approach could improve engineered tissues' strength and potentially be used to investigate disease mechanisms.
A study by University of Michigan researchers found that US teens feel stressed more often than East Asian students, despite performing poorly on math tests. The stress is mainly caused by unclear academic goals and societal expectations, while Japanese students have a clearer focus on academic achievement.
Researchers at the University of Michigan are developing nanomolecular 'smart bombs' that can detect pre-malignant and cancerous changes in living cells. These devices use synthetic polymers called dendrimers to transport anti-cancer drugs and sensing agents into cells.
Researchers are changing treatment methods for gum disease to focus on treating bacterial infections. This approach can save many teeth that were previously considered 'hopeless' and may reduce the risk of heart disease.
Scientists will gather at the University of Michigan to discuss technical problems in measuring global carbon emissions, including identifying 'sinks' for locking up atmospheric carbon. The three-day symposium aims to advance our understanding and verification of carbon credits.
Scientists created a new mouse strain with a genetic deletion that affects stress hormones and behavior. The mice exhibit anxiety-like behavior consistently, not just in response to external stimuli, offering insights into the role of CRH-binding protein in depression and anxiety disorders.
The University of Michigan School of Public Health is leading a $12.5 million project to improve the quality of life for children with asthma. The initiative aims to establish local coalitions that implement programs reducing hospital stays, emergency room visits, and enhancing asthma management. Faculty from U-M's asthma research team...
Researchers found Yersinia pestis uses a protein called YopJ to cut off cellular communication, disrupting immune response and killing the host. Understanding this mechanism could have important implications in medicine, particularly for cancer and immune-related diseases.
The new process uses a terawatt laser to deliver incredible energies in femtoseconds, sorting isotopes by molecular weight. This breakthrough eliminates the need for huge electro-magnets and cross-contaminated byproducts, making it an efficient alternative to gaseous diffusion.
Researchers at the University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center have identified two genes that may control the development of inflammatory breast cancer. The discovery, published in Clinical Cancer Research, could lead to more effective forms of cancer treatment, particularly for newly diagnosed women.