Banks with strong political connections were more likely to receive bailout money from the government—and more of it—in the past year than those with weaker ties, say researchers with the U-M Ross School of Business.

In a study that helps to explain the origins of water on Earth, U-M astronomers have found that water vapor can form spontaneously in habitable zones of solar systems.

U-M researchers and colleagues working in Argentina have discovered how dinosaurs were able to navigate muddy and slippery inclines.

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U-M researchers disclosed 350 new inventions in fiscal year 2009, setting a new record. Despite the state’s economic woes, the university licensed eight new startups in the last fiscal year.

Modern tissue engineering developed at the University of Michigan Health System could improve the function of prosthetic hands and possibly restore the sense of touch for injured patients.

U-M has become a leader in helping top athletes and weekend warriors avoid injuries.

U-M researchers have found that the current theory of an internal mechanism controlling our sleep is, “frankly, wrong.”

“In the coming years, U.S. consumers will save more and spend less,” said U-M economist Richard Curtin. “The recovery will be slow and uneven, and it could take a decade or more for consumers to restore their sense of financial security to pre-recession levels.”

Related: Older Americans: How they are faring in the recession?

Older Americans have weathered the financial crisis relatively well, although many now expect to work longer than they did just a year ago, according to a University of Michigan study.