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Michigan State University


Do genes express themselves through poetry?

Researchers at Michigan State University have discovered that DNA's regulatory regions resemble a poetic language, composed of coding and regulatory elements. By analyzing variants of a key protein and applying mathematical models, the team was able to identify conserved properties in other sequences, enabling them to 'read' the genome.

Ocean views linked to better mental health

A study by Michigan State University found that residents with ocean views experience significantly lower levels of psychological distress compared to those with green space. The researchers suggest that blue spaces may have a calming effect on the mind, while human-made areas in green spaces may not.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalHealth & Place·DateApr 28, 2016

Fighting against counterfeit medicine

A new study from Michigan State University applies criminology theory to combat counterfeit medicines, identifying key factors in crime occurrence and the importance of field product authentication efforts. By analyzing protocols for crime scene investigation and forensic science in Nigeria, the researchers found that a country's willi...

SourceMichigan State University·JournalForensic Science and Criminology·DateApr 25, 2016

Using data to explore poetic sound

A researcher from Michigan State University is using a fellowship to study the role of sound in modern South Asian poetry, exploring rhyme, stress and patterns of repetition. The project aims to develop best practices for encoding linguistic data and preserve cultural forms in the region.

A better nutritional facts panel

A new study suggests that improving the nutritional facts panel on food packages could lead to better consumer choices and reduced obesity rates. The research found that adding key nutrients and using a traffic light system improved consumers' ability to make informed decisions.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalFood Policy·DateApr 15, 2016

Study links gang membership and depression

A recent study found that gang membership is associated with increased levels of depression and suicidal thoughts among middle- and high-school students. The research, conducted by Michigan State University and Bowling Green State University, highlights the negative impact of gang involvement on mental health outcomes.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalCriminal Justice and Behavior·DateApr 13, 2016

Antibiotic resistance genes increasing

Research by Michigan State University found that large-scale swine farms in China and the US are breeding ground for multidrug-resistant bacteria. Partner genes, which can confer resistance to multiple antibiotics, were discovered in Chinese soils and manure, highlighting the need for prudent agricultural antibiotic use.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalmBio·DateApr 12, 2016

Lead in soil another known factor in Flint

Researchers have found a link between lead contamination in Flint's soil and elevated blood levels in local children, particularly in low-income areas. The study suggests that soil lead is an additional factor contributing to the city's ongoing water crisis.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateMar 31, 2016

What's holding black entrepreneurs back?

African-Americans face significant obstacles to entrepreneurship due to centuries-old racial disadvantages, including limited access to resources and financial services. The majority of black-owned businesses are smaller, have fewer employees, and generate less revenue compared to their white counterparts.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalEthnic and Racial Studies·DateMar 31, 2016

Widespread sexual harassment persists in India

A recent study found that 40% of women in Delhi experienced sexual harassment in the past year, leading to a significant impact on their daily lives. The research highlights the importance of addressing women's safety in public spaces and implementing effective measures to prevent such incidents.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalInternational Criminal Justice Review·DateMar 28, 2016

MSU discovers a new kind of stem cell

Researchers at Michigan State University have discovered a new type of induced Xen (iXEN) stem cells that can be created by reprogramming mature adult cells. These cells have unique properties and can shed light on reproductive diseases, potentially leading to advances in regenerative medicine.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateMar 3, 2016

Hey boss: Workers prefer consistent jerk to loose cannon

A recent study published in the Academy of Management Journal found that employees who work for consistently unfair supervisors are less stressed and more satisfied than those with erratic bosses. The researchers suggest that prioritizing self-discipline and careful thinking can help deliver leaders who treat employees fairly most of t...

SourceMichigan State University·JournalAcademy of Management Journal·DateMar 1, 2016

Fat cells outlive skinny ones

A new study from Michigan State University finds that fat cells, not lean cells, have a longer lifespan. The researchers used yeast to demonstrate that increasing the cellular content of triacylglycerol, or fat, extends lifespan. This finding supports the obesity paradox theory and has implications for human aging and health.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateFeb 23, 2016

Feeding a city with better food sources

A Michigan State University study found that relocating a farmers' market to downtown Flint has increased customers from low-income neighborhoods, who now have better access to fresh produce. The market's move also boosted local economic activity and attracted more bus riders.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalApplied Geography·DateFeb 17, 2016

Cyber thieves making millions in profits

A study published in the journal Deviant Behavior estimates that cybercrime profits are in the hundreds of millions, with sellers making between $250,000 to $1 million per batch of 50 stolen cards. Buyers can earn up to $8 million by using the stolen cards, highlighting a lucrative global criminal enterprise.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalDeviant Behavior·DateFeb 16, 2016

When the boss's ethical behavior breaks bad

Research by Michigan State University found that ethical leaders are more likely to experience mental exhaustion, leading to moral licensing and increased abuse towards employees. To combat this, experts recommend prioritizing employee self-care, such as breaks, sleep, exercise, and boundary-setting.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Applied Psychology·DateFeb 12, 2016

Sleep deprivation linked to false confessions

A groundbreaking study from Michigan State University found that sleep-deprived individuals are 4.5 times more likely to sign false confessions than those who have slept eight hours the night before. This raises complex questions about police interrogation practices and the use of sleep deprivation in interrogations.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 8, 2016

New solution to economic eyesores?

Researchers are testing whether recycling and repurposing building materials can revitalize a distressed Great Lakes community. The project aims to create an economic cluster by identifying industries that can maximize material reuse and resale. By doing so, it could provide jobs and boost local economy.

New science helps put spotlight on unseen global impacts

A new science framework, telecoupling, is used to examine the often unseen consequences of global transactions on human-nature interactions. The framework, developed by sustainability scholar Jianguo Liu, allows scientists to analyze how distant environmental and socioeconomic actions lead to reactions and feedbacks globally.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateFeb 4, 2016

Why do scientists chase unicorns?

A team of international scientists led by Maren Friesen from Michigan State University discovered a previously unknown bacteria that can fix its own nitrogen, a compound used in critical biological functions. The finding has significant implications for reducing pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, making it a 'unicorn' worth chasing.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 1, 2016

1 in 4 kids sexually harassed by friends online

A new study led by Michigan State University found that nearly 1 in 4 children experience online sexual harassment at the hands of their own friends. Parents can help mitigate this issue by having open and honest conversations with their kids about online safety and boundaries.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Contemporary Criminal Justice·DateJan 7, 2016