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Kansas State University


Philosopher uses game theory to understand how words, actions acquire meaning

Researchers used evolutionary game theory models to study information flow in the natural world, finding that arbitrary signals can come to mean something through a natural process. This discovery may help explain how words gain meaning and acquire meaning through biological evolution, social learning, or other adaptive processes.

SourceKansas State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 21, 2014

Researcher builds a better job performance review

A Kansas State University researcher has found that nobody likes negative feedback, even those trying to learn. Culbertson suggests focusing on constructive feedback, avoiding numerical ratings, and eliminating the 'sandwich' approach. This can help managers improve employee motivation, commitment, and performance.

SourceKansas State University·JournalJournal of Personnel Psychology·DateFeb 24, 2014

Research prevents zoonotic feline tularemia by finding influential geospatial factors

A Kansas State University epidemiologist has found that climate, physical environment, and socio-ecologic conditions contribute to tularemia infections among domestic cats. The study identified newly urbanized areas, residential locations surrounded by grassland, and high-humidity environments as key factors in the disease's prevalence.

SourceKansas State University·JournalVector-Borne and Zoonotic Diseases·DateFeb 19, 2014

Study finds biochemical role of crucial TonB protein in bacterial iron transport and pathogenesis

A Kansas State University-led study reveals that the TonB protein plays a central role in the uptake of iron by Gram-negative bacteria, which cause diseases like typhoid fever and meningitis. The research found that TonB acts as an electric motor that rotates in response to cellular energy flow, enabling iron acquisition into the cell.

SourceKansas State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 1, 2013