A simple and robust experimental process for protein engineering uses machine learning models to predict effective proteins for various applications. The method involves binary sorting of cells based on desired traits and sequencing data analysis to identify the best possible protein.
Despite Trump's attacks on scientific experts, Americans' basic confidence in science and scientific expertise remained unshaken. The proportion of adults with a low level of trust in scientific expertise increased from 3% to 13%, while the proportion with a high level of trust rose from 23% to 58%.
A team of researchers from the University of Michigan has identified the GluK2 protein as a key player in cold sensing, which could help unravel why some patients experience painful reactions to cold. The discovery may also offer new paths to treating pain in cancer patients receiving chemotherapy.
Researchers at the University of Michigan have developed advanced lead compounds with anti-HIV activity, overcoming challenges such as supply and off-target effects. The compounds were created by modifying concanamycin A, a natural compound that can inhibit HIV's ability to hide from the immune system.
A change in circulating influenza viruses is driving the US to move away from quadrivalent to trivalent flu vaccines. Researchers suggest removing B/Yamagata virus from vaccine formulations to avoid protecting against non-circulating strains.
Researchers uncover the role of tiny enzyme DGK5 in triggering a burst of PA, which regulates plant immune response and reactive oxygen species production. This discovery sheds light on plant immunity mechanisms and opens up future research into lipids involved in immune signaling.
Researchers have developed a stem cell culture model that resembles all three sections of the embryonic brain and spinal cord. The model sheds light on developmental brain diseases and offers possibilities for studying human brain development and disease.
A new study suggests that speed is the key to snake evolution, with over 4,000 species emerging through rapid changes in feeding, locomotion, and sensory processing. Snakes' adaptability allowed them to exploit new opportunities after an asteroid impact, leading to their diversity.
A University of Michigan team recalibrated traffic signals using GPS data from connected vehicles, resulting in a 20-30% decrease in stops at intersections. The system reduces costs and cuts vehicle emissions by optimizing signal patterns for changing traffic flows.
A new University of Michigan study reveals that nearly 15% of Americans deny climate change's reality, with a strong correlation between Republican voters and climate change deniers. The study found that belief in climate change varies substantially within states, with some areas having higher denial rates than others.
Researchers developed a new chip that can detect cancer cells in blood samples, enabling clinicians to adapt treatments and improve outcomes for patients with lung cancer. The device traps and concentrates tiny numbers of cancer cells, allowing for regular monitoring of treatment effectiveness.
A new University of Michigan-led international study finds that urban agriculture produces food with a carbon footprint six times larger than conventionally grown produce. However, certain city-grown crops, such as tomatoes and air-freighted crops like asparagus, showed comparable or even lower carbon intensity under specific conditions.
Researchers at the University of Michigan developed a metal-free magnetic gel that can power soft robots and guide medical capsules. The gel's strong, non-toxic magnetism enables flexible robotics applications, while its biodegradable properties make it suitable for medical operations.
Engineers have discovered a method to increase the stability of perovskite solar cells using bulky additives, which could enable the production of cheaper solar panels. The study suggests that larger molecules with specific configurations are most effective at preventing defects in the cells.
A new study by University of Michigan researchers found that genetic variants underlying male bisexual behavior are reproductively advantageous, leading to more children and increased risk-taking. The analysis of over 450,000 participants revealed a correlation between these alleles and higher fertility rates in heterosexual men.
A University of Michigan project aims to create a smoother experience for robotic prosthetic leg users, with renewed support from the National Institutes of Health. The team has developed a continuous modeling framework that mimics biomechanical impedance, enabling the leg to move seamlessly between different activities.
Researchers at the University of Michigan have developed blue phosphorescent OLEDs (PHOLEDs) that can maintain 90% of their blue light intensity for 10-14 times longer than other designs, making them potentially commercially viable. This breakthrough could enable the widespread use of blue PHOLEDs in OLED displays and lighting.
A study by University of Michigan researchers found that CLIP performs poorly on images from low-income and non-Western households, potentially exacerbating digital technology inequality. The model's bias can propagate into downstream applications and tools, excluding diverse representations and perpetuating socioeconomic disparities.
A University of Michigan-led study found genetic mutations promoting reproduction are linked to shorter lifespans. Individuals with higher reproductive rates have lower probabilities of living beyond age 76.
A University of Michigan study found that Black patients are less likely to receive a home health care referral after hospital discharge, despite having higher risk profiles. The disparity was observed even when adjusting for different risk factors.
Researchers propose a new method to track small pieces of space debris by detecting electric signals emitted when they collide. This approach could help protect satellites and spacecraft from damage, as tiny pieces of debris can cause significant harm at high orbital speeds.
Researchers at the University of Michigan developed a new way to move quasiparticles, which could lead to more efficient devices and room temperature quantum computers. The team used a laser to create a cloud of quasiparticles that migrated up the pyramid's edge and settled at the peak.
Researchers successfully grow dolomite in laboratory using new theory developed from atomic simulations. The breakthrough resolves the 'Dolomite Problem,' which had puzzled scientists for 200 years. By removing defects in mineral structure, researchers can promote crystal growth of modern technological materials.
University of Michigan researchers discovered that less evolved dwarf galaxies have bigger regions of star factories with higher rates of star formation. A 10-million-year delay in blowing out gas allows these galaxies to hang on to their gas and dust, enabling more stars to coalesce and evolve.
Research reveals that male teens with two or more concussions in a year are twice as likely to attempt suicide compared to those with one concussion. Females also show increased odds of suicidal behaviors regardless of concussion frequency.
A team of researchers has developed an atom-predicting model similar to the GPT models that support applications like ChatGPT. The new model focuses on small organic molecules with relevance to energy storage and conversion applications.
A new study suggests that diverse forests can capture approximately 226 gigatonnes of carbon, enough to make a meaningful contribution to slowing climate change. Restoration efforts should include a natural diversity of species and sustainable agricultural practices to maximize their potential.
A University of Michigan study found that meeting the 50% electric vehicle sales target by 2030 is possible, but not just through increased EV sales. The study suggests implementing additional strategies such as reducing vehicle production emissions and promoting walkable, bikeable cities to accelerate emission reduction. By 2035, a 45...
Scientists have successfully constructed a quasicrystal using DNA-assembled nanoparticles, demonstrating programmable control over material structures. The discovery opens avenues for designing advanced nanomaterials with unique properties.
Researchers at the University of Michigan have developed a new smartphone case called BrushLens that can help users with visual impairments, tremors, and spasms to interact with touch screens. The device uses a camera to read screen options aloud and guides the user's hand to tap buttons or autoclickers on the underside of the phone case.
A team of engineers at the University of Michigan and Google has designed a simple touchscreen interface for programming exoskeleton assistance settings. Users can provide feedback on two pre-programmed profiles and receive personalized recommendations based on machine learning algorithms.
A new U-M-led study found that lions tend to avoid human-dominated areas unless facing food scarcity and habitat fragmentation. The study suggests expanding human land use and climate change could increase human-lion conflict, threatening lion populations.
Researchers found a significant link between geomagnetic disturbances and disruptions to nocturnal bird migration. The study used massive datasets from U.S. Doppler weather radar stations and ground-based magnetometers, revealing a 9-17% reduction in migrating birds during severe space weather events.
A new study from the University of Michigan found significant racial disparities in preparedness for aging in place, with 40% of older Black adults living with a disability. Researchers highlight factors such as income, disability status, and household composition that negatively impact minority aging.
A new study finds that drier ecosystems in savannas and grasslands have a greater potential for carbon storage when fires are less frequent. Over the past two decades, soil carbon rose by an estimated 23% in dryland savanna-grasslands, while it declined by 25% in more humid regions.
The James Webb Space Telescope detected no significant atmosphere around TRAPPIST-1 b, a planet in the habitable zone of its cool star. The study highlights the impact of stellar activity on observations of exoplanets, which can create 'ghost signals' that affect data interpretation.
Researchers found that peer discrimination had the greatest impact on cortisol levels in teens, leading to unhealthy cortisol patterns and chronic disease risks. The study also highlights the need for policies and programs to eliminate racial discrimination and its negative health effects.
Researchers have developed a new model to study DEPDC5-related epilepsy, revealing the role of breathing control in fatal seizures. The model identifies a unique pattern in fatal seizures, which starts with increased breathing rate and stops completely, leading to fatal lack of oxygen.
A study analyzed Medicaid claims data to find that less than 20% of patients treated for opioid overdoses were started on FDA-approved medications, including buprenorphine and naltrexone. Despite the potential for these medications to be lifesaving, crucial opportunities to prevent overdose deaths are being missed.
Agriculture can both facilitate and hinder pathogen spread through deforestation, habitat fragmentation, and biodiversity loss. Promoting agricultural practices that boost biodiversity and create barriers can prevent zoonotic spillover.
University of Michigan researchers found that large cosmic structures grow at a rate slower than expected, with dark energy accelerating the universe's expansion having an opposite effect on structure growth. This discovery challenges the standard model and addresses the S8 tension in cosmology.
Researchers at the University of Michigan developed a machine-learning algorithm that highlights issues in antibodies binding to non-target molecules. The model can be used on existing or new antibodies, reducing the number of manufacturing and testing iterations needed.
A new study finds that farmers in India are intensifying groundwater withdrawal for irrigation as temperatures rise, potentially leading to a tripling of groundwater loss. This trend threatens the livelihoods of over one-third of India's population and has global implications.
Researchers discovered that a rare disease called cystinosis shares the same cellular mechanism as cystic fibrosis, involving the lysosome's recycling center. The study found that a specific protein degradation pathway was responsible for the disease's effects, and a small chemical chaperone could help stabilize the protein.
Researchers from University of Michigan found a strong link between air pollution from wildfires and farming activities, and the risk of developing dementia. The study, which analyzed data from nearly 30,000 adults over 18 years, suggests that reducing exposure to these sources of emissions may help lower the incidence of dementia.
Research at the University of Michigan shows that cracks in lithium-ion electrodes shorten battery lifespans but also reduce charge time. The study uses a neuroscience-inspired technique to measure the charging properties of individual cathode particles, revealing that cracked materials can charge faster due to increased surface area.
The University of Michigan has released new data from a study on the impact of Facebook and Instagram on key political attitudes during the 2020 US presidential election. The data, known as SOMAR, offers insights into social media's effect on polarization, informedness, and democratic attitudes.
Scientists at the University of Michigan have discovered a critical chemical tag on messenger RNAs involved in insulin synthesis, which affects protein production. Altering this tag reduces insulin production and triggers diabetes-like symptoms in fruit flies.
A University of Michigan-led study found that transnational conglomerates' palm oil supply chains contribute to deforestation in Guatemala. Seven Key Biodiversity Areas and 23 protected areas are impacted by oil palm expansion. Environmental certification programs like RSPO do not effectively mitigate deforestation risk.
Researchers found that Black and Hispanic women experienced an earlier onset of menopause than white women when weathering biases were accounted for. This study highlights the importance of considering selection bias in future health studies to better understand and address racial disparities in women's health.