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Michigan State University


The world needs death and decomposition

A new study by Michigan State University establishes a baseline of organisms that play key roles in carrion decomposition, promoting the importance of death in ecosystems. The research also highlights the complex interactions between decomposer communities and their impact on nutrient cycling and ecosystem processes.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalEcological Monographs·DateSep 12, 2018

New blood pressure app

A proof-of-concept blood pressure app has been developed using iPhone optical and force sensors, rivalling arm-cuff readings. The app aims to improve hypertension awareness and control rates, potentially reducing cardiovascular disease and mortality.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 7, 2018

The 'invisible hand' doesn't control markets

New research from Michigan State University challenges the traditional 'invisible hand' theory of market control. A third party's intervention disrupts trading relationships, establishing trust and loyalty among parties involved. This leads to favorable prices, but also creates a risk of runaway train-like effects unless regulated.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalRationality and Society·DateAug 28, 2018

Pinpointing a molecule for sea lamprey control

Researchers have identified a pheromone, a fatty acid derivative, that guides larval and adult sea lampreys to spawning grounds. The discovery holds potential for disrupting adult sea lampreys' reproduction, offering a new approach to controlling the invasive species.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 1, 2018

Disaster recovery requires rebuilding livelihoods

A new Michigan State University study found that disaster recovery policies must consider the livelihood portfolio of families to avoid long-term devastation. The research focused on the 2008 Wenchuan Earthquake in China, where rebuilding efforts inadvertently worsened poverty and environmental degradation.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalEcological Economics·DateJun 6, 2018

Study finds popular 'growth mindset' educational interventions aren't very effective

A study by Michigan State University and Case Western Reserve University found that growth mindset interventions have little to no effect on academic achievement for typical students. The researchers suggest that the benefits of these interventions are overstated and that something other than mindset is causing the observed effects.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalPsychological Science·DateMay 22, 2018

Lifting the economy on hawks' wings

A new study measures regional job creation due to native predators' regulating services, finding that American kestrels can save farmers up to $357 of cherries per dollar spent on nest boxes. Building these boxes is estimated to generate 46 to 50 jobs and over $2 million in increased revenue for Michigan's economy.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateMay 15, 2018

Using MRSA's strength against it

Researchers at Michigan State University have identified how MRSA absorbs human fatty acids to resist antimicrobials, providing a new target for developing more effective treatments. By inhibiting the cell membrane's ability to produce lipids, scientists may improve the efficacy of existing antibacterial agents like triclosan.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Bacteriology·DateMay 14, 2018

Importing food damages domestic environment

A new study by Michigan State University researchers shows that importing food can damage the environment at home. The study found that shifting from sustainable crops like soybeans to water and nutrient-intensive crops like corn increases nitrogen pollution in importing countries.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 7, 2018

Are millennials taking over the supply chain?

Michigan State University research reveals that millennials are driving a shift towards customized, experiential supply chains where customers have more control over the product. This change requires companies to deliver tailored offerings and prioritize greater visibility and social responsibility.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalLogistics & Supply Chain Review·DateApr 16, 2018

Bugs, microbes and death can inform the living

A study from Michigan State University reveals the postmortem microbiome provides crucial insights into public health, with consistent patterns regardless of factors like sex or ethnicity. The research also suggests that the microbiome can be used to assess health conditions, such as heart disease, in living populations.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 10, 2018

There's no such thing as oversharing in conservation

A study by Michigan State University and The Nature Conservancy found that informal boundary spanners are four times more likely to diffuse information, making them key influencers in organizational change. By analyzing the organization's social network structure, leaders can identify these hubs and disseminate new ideas efficiently.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalNature Sustainability·DateApr 9, 2018

Conservation costs can be higher than bargained for

A new Michigan State University study reveals that participants in payments for ecosystem services programs may become conservation martyrs due to oversimplified payment models. The research highlights the importance of considering opportunity costs at the beginning and monitoring benefits over time to ensure participant well-being.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 21, 2018

Environmentally friendly cattle production (really)

A Michigan State University study evaluated adaptive multi-paddock, or AMP, grass-fed operations and found that they can potentially offset greenhouse gas emissions. The research also showed that the finishing phase of beef production could be a net carbon sink, with carbon levels staying in the green rather than in the red.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalAgricultural Systems·DateMar 19, 2018

To build up mussels, you need to know your fish

A new study by Michigan State University reveals that conserving mussels is linked to protecting their host fish species. The research found that different mussel varieties are tied to specific fish hosts and prioritize conservation efforts must protect both. This understanding will inform the development of effective conservation stra...

SourceMichigan State University·JournalHydrobiologia·DateFeb 27, 2018

MSU team to empower Latino farmers

A MSU team is working to support Latino migrant farmers in Michigan by providing training and resources to improve farming practices. The project aims to increase the sustainability of small-scale farms, particularly those owned by Latino farmers, who are increasingly transitioning from industrial farms to independent land ownership.

Dim light may make us dumber

Researchers found that dim light exposure led to significant reductions in brain-derived neurotrophic factor and dendritic spines, impairing learning and memory performance. Bright light exposure, on the other hand, showed improvement in spatial task performance, with full recovery after a break.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalHippocampus·DateFeb 5, 2018

Protecting piping plovers

A Michigan State University study reveals that the endangered piping plover population may decline over the next decade due to increasing predator pressure. The researchers developed an integrated population model coupled with a Bayesian population viability analysis to improve accuracy in forecasting population changes.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateJan 23, 2018