University of Minnesota
Coverage of University of Minnesota in the Nexus archive.
- Outbreak of diarrhea-causing parasite grows to more than 1,000 cases
An outbreak of cyclospora, a parasite causing watery diarrhea, has infected over 1,000 people in Michigan and Ohio, with no deaths reported. Investigations are ongoing in 28 states, and the source remains unidentified. Michigan's cases surged from 170 to 992 since June 22, with 40 hospitalizations.
- Outbreak of diarrhea-causing parasite grows to more than 1,000 cases
An outbreak of cyclospora, a parasite causing watery diarrhea, has infected over 1,000 people in Michigan and Ohio, marking the largest such outbreak in Michigan's history. No deaths have been reported, but the source remains unidentified, with investigations ongoing in 28 states.
- Outbreak of diarrhea-causing parasite grows to more than 1,000 cases
An outbreak of cyclospora, a parasite causing watery diarrhea, has infected over 1,000 people in Michigan and Ohio, with no deaths reported. The source remains unidentified, and investigations are ongoing in 28 U.S. states. Cyclospora outbreaks are typically rare but have increased in recent years, linked to climate change and improved detection.
- California farmer and food marketer spar over who can sell white nectarines
California farmer Cesar Mora is giving away his white nectarine harvest amid a legal dispute with Giumarra Brothers Fruit Co., which claims exclusive rights to the 'Monalise' variety. The case involves allegations of contract violations and highlights tensions between farmers and plant breeders over patented fruit varieties.
- 'Milestone': Scientists claim to build synthetic cell, raising concerns in step toward artificial life
Scientists at the University of Minnesota claim to have built the most life-like synthetic cell, SpudCell, assembled entirely from nonliving components capable of growth, DNA replication, division, and passing traits to offspring. The synthetic cells require lab-controlled nutrients and external components to survive and have not undergone peer review, with researchers acknowledging limitations like 30% genome inheritance after five generations.
- Scientists create first synthetic cell that can complete life cycle
University of Minnesota scientists created the first synthetic cell that can complete a life cycle. Kate Adamala, a University of Minnesota professor and co-founder of Biotic, discussed the project with CBS News.
- University of Minnesota scientists say they’ve created world’s first synthetic cell from scratch
University of Minnesota scientists have developed the world’s first synthetic cell with a complete life cycle, made entirely of non-living chemicals. The cell can grow, replicate, divide, and compete across generations, with potential applications in medicine, materials, and industrial chemistry.
- How melatonin works and what you should know about it
Melatonin is a hormone that regulates the body's circadian rhythm, signaling the body to prepare for sleep by lowering temperature and slowing digestion. Dr. Michael Howell advises that it benefits people with circadian rhythm delays (night owls) but should be avoided by early risers. General sleep tips include limiting caffeine, avoiding large evening meals, and maintaining a consistent wake-up time.
- How melatonin works and what you should know about it
Melatonin is a hormone produced in the brain that regulates the body’s circadian rhythm, signaling the body to prepare for sleep by lowering temperature and slowing digestive activity. Dr. Michael Howell, a neurologist and sleep specialist, recommends low-dose melatonin for night owls with circadian rhythm delays but advises against it for early risers, as it may worsen their sleep patterns.
- How melatonin works and what you should know about it
Melatonin is a hormone produced in the brain that regulates circadian rhythm by signaling the body to prepare for sleep, such as lowering body temperature and slowing digestion. It is effective for individuals with circadian rhythm delays (night owls) but should be avoided by early risers, as it may worsen their sleep patterns.
- Scientists made a cell with most of the hallmarks of life. Here’s what to know
Scientists at the University of Minnesota created a synthetic cell called SpudCell, which mimics most hallmarks of life. The cell is a simplified version of a living cell structure, raising questions about its classification as alive.
- This cell feeds, grows and reproduces. And it’s made by humans
University of Minnesota scientists created a synthetic cell in a lab using chemical ingredients. The cell exhibits most of the hallmarks of life.
- Chanhassen native Stu Bickel takes over as Iowa Wild head coach
Stu Bickel, a Chanhassen native and former NHL player, has been named head coach of the Iowa Wild, Minnesota Wild's AHL affiliate. He previously served as an assistant coach with the Coachella Valley Firebirds for five seasons, guiding them to the Calder Cup Playoffs annually. Bickel's playing career included stints with the New York Rangers and Minnesota Wild, and he has prior coaching experience at the University of Minnesota.
- University of Minnesota approves 3.8% tuition hike amid millions in budget cuts
The University of Minnesota Board of Regents approved a 3.8% tuition increase amid $44 million in budget cuts, leading to job reductions and the sale of the Les Bolstad Golf Course to a housing developer. University leaders cited rising costs, inflation, and decreased public investment as reasons for the tuition hike.
- Aging Untold: How to recognize when you’re stuck and grief becomes a barrier
The article discusses prolonged grief as a barrier, emphasizing the importance of seeking help when stuck. It highlights the benefits of creating a personal care manual for aging adults and explores debates around PSA testing for prostate cancer. Additionally, it describes a Tennessee goat ranch using animal therapy for healing.
- PSA testing for prostate cancer: Understanding the debate
PSA testing for prostate cancer detects elevated prostate-specific antigen levels but is controversial due to false positives and non-cancerous causes like enlarged prostates. Experts recommend men aged 55-69 and those at higher risk (family history, African American descent) discuss screening with healthcare providers, as early detection can improve outcomes for aggressive cancers.
- PSA testing for prostate cancer: Understanding the debate
PSA testing for prostate cancer is controversial due to its potential for false positives and inability to distinguish between life-threatening and non-threatening cancers. Experts like Dr. Christopher Warlick highlight that elevated PSA levels can result from noncancerous conditions, and the United States Preventive Services Task Force recommends men aged 55-69 discuss screening with their providers, particularly those at higher risk such as African American men or those with family histories of prostate cancer.
- PSA testing for prostate cancer: Understanding the debate
PSA testing for prostate cancer is controversial due to its potential for false positives and non-cancerous causes of elevated PSA levels. Experts recommend men aged 55-69 discuss screening with providers, especially those at higher risk, such as African American men or those with family history. The test can detect life-threatening cancers early but may lead to unnecessary biopsies or treatment for slow-growing, non-threatening cancers.
- Watch: Gophers AD Mark Coyle on hitting 10-year milestone, selling Williams Arena naming rights, gambling education, and more
Mark Coyle celebrated 10 years as Gophers director of athletics, overseeing 22 varsity sports and 600 athletes. The University of Minnesota Board of Regents approved a two-year contract extension for Coyle through June 2032, and Williams Arena will be renamed 'The Barn by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota' in a $17 million, 10-year deal. Coyle discussed gambling education for athletes and the allocation of $1.7 million annually from the naming rights contract.
- U.S. Bank Stadium getting partial roof replacement after 2023 hail damage
U.S. Bank Stadium is undergoing a partial roof replacement following hail damage in 2023, which has raised concerns about the durability of the ETFE material used in its construction. Vector Foiltec’s CEO acknowledged past hail damage cases, and experts question the material’s long-term resilience in extreme climates.
- White Bear Lake board member censured over superintendent comments — but was it retaliation?
Dan Skaar, a White Bear Lake Area Schools board member, was censured after an investigation into comments about the district’s superintendent and an internal email. Skaar claims the reprimand is retaliation for seeking accountability, while the district argues his actions violated data privacy and open meeting laws. A legal expert supports Skaar’s right to express his views, questioning the validity of the sanctions.
- Williams Arena no more, building takes on its nickname in renaming
Williams Arena, home to the University of Minnesota's basketball team, has been renamed 'The Barn by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota' as part of a 10-year partnership focused on health innovation and community initiatives. The new name honors the venue's longstanding nickname and includes programs like on-campus health support, youth sports clinics, and mental health awareness campaigns.
- University of Minnesota, Fairview finalize deal
The University of Minnesota, Fairview Health Services, and M Physicians finalized a deal providing $1 billion in Fairview facility upgrades, $50 million annual funding for the medical school, and a new program supporting physicians in Greater Minnesota. The agreement, effective January 1, 2027, will be voted on by university and partner boards.
- University of Minnesota entertains $30.5M bid for Les Bolstad Golf Course
The University of Minnesota Board of Regents is considering a $30.5 million bid from Rachel Development Inc. to sell the Les Bolstad Golf Course in Falcon Heights for a residential and commercial development. University President Rebecca Cunningham recommends approving the sale. The article also mentions a whistleblower case involving former Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara and Columbia Heights removing Flock cameras.
- A tiny atomic shift gives scientists powerful control over metals
A team at the University of Minnesota found that altering a metal film's thickness by a few nanometers can significantly change its electronic behavior. This discovery offers a new method to control metals and may advance electronics, catalysis, and quantum technology.
- Bringing Lung Cancer Screening to Rural Minnesota
A research project in rural Minnesota, led by Dr. Abbie Begnaud of the Masonic Cancer Center at the University of Minnesota, aims to increase lung cancer screening rates by engaging rural clinics to identify eligible patients and schedule screenings. The initiative addresses barriers like limited access to imaging centers, higher smoking rates, and stigma around smoking in rural areas, where early detection could significantly improve survival rates.
- STAT+: For prostate cancer patients set on surgery, new hormone regimen may improve outcomes, study finds
A new phase 3 clinical trial called PROTEUS found that combining two hormone therapies before and after surgery improved outcomes for high-risk, early-stage prostate cancer patients compared to one hormone therapy. Some oncologists view this as a potential new standard of care, though interpretations of the results vary.
- Inside the Federal Reserve’s transition of power
Kevin Warsh has been confirmed by the Senate as the next Federal Reserve chair but must complete final procedural steps including presidential approval and divestment of over $100 million in assets before being sworn in. Stephen Miran resigned from his temporary position at the Federal Reserve, while Christopher Phelan was tapped to fill Miran's previous role at the Council of Economic Advisers.
- Minnesota allows ‘happy hour’ in nursing homes under new law easing alcohol restrictions
Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz signed a bill allowing nursing home residents to consume alcohol during 'happy hour' without requiring a liquor license. The law, dubbed the 'Grandparents’ Happy Hour' law, updates state liquor regulations and was supported by bipartisan advocates and residents like 88-year-old Anita LeBrun, who highlighted the importance of social gatherings for seniors.
- Lawmakers ponder terrorism designations, homicide charges over hospital ransomware attacks
Lawmakers are considering designating ransomware attacks on hospitals as terrorism and pursuing homicide charges in cases where attacks result in deaths. The proposals follow a surge in healthcare sector attacks, with incidents doubling in 2025, and include references to past U.S. and German investigations. Cynthia Kaiser, a former FBI cyber official, advocated for stricter penalties, citing potential sanctions and legal clarity.
- Trump’s birthright citizenship crusade draws backing from cohort of prominent legal scholars
A group of seven law professors, including Ilan Wurman and Randy Barnett, are supporting President Donald Trump's effort to narrow birthright citizenship under the 14th Amendment. They argue originalist interpretations warrant reconsideration of the constitutional provision, facing skepticism from Supreme Court justices.