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University of Minnesota


Research Brief: Older adults often prescribed meds linked to higher side effect risks

A study found that six percent of visits to physicians involve high-risk anticholinergic medications, commonly used for depression and gastrointestinal disorders. The prevalence varies by physician specialty and patient demographics, with women and those from the South being more likely to receive these prescriptions.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateMar 27, 2018

Researchers 3-D print lifelike artificial organ models

A team of researchers from the University of Minnesota has created lifelike artificial organ models through 3D printing, featuring integrated soft sensors. These patient-specific models can enhance pre-operative practice, allowing surgeons to better plan and execute surgeries, potentially reducing medical errors and saving lives.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalAdvanced Materials Technologies·DateDec 6, 2017

From Alaska to Amazonia: First global maps of traits that drive vegetation growth

Researchers have created detailed global maps of key plant traits that significantly impact carbon cycle calculations. The maps show substantial local diversity, contradicting previous simplistic models that assumed identical trait values across regions. This advancement will lead to more accurate modeling of carbon cycle feedbacks.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 1, 2017

Clear lakes disguise impaired water quality

Scientists from the University of Minnesota found that excessively fertilized lakes in Iowa had low algae growth due to the destructive effect of nitrate particles, resulting in increased water clarity. This study suggests that relying on water clarity to gauge water quality may not be effective in all regions.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalInland Waters·DateOct 9, 2017