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Michigan State University


US citizenship may be determined at random

A Michigan State University researcher found that the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) test is not reliable in measuring civics knowledge. The test questions are randomly selected from a pool of 100, but no data has been released on their reliability or validity.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalLanguage Assessment Quarterly·DateMar 11, 2012

Elusive Higgs boson in sight?

Researchers at Michigan State University's DZero team have detected a distinct Higgs-like signature that cannot be easily explained without the presence of something new. If confirmed, this finding would be a major milestone for the world physics community and validate the Standard Model.

Ethanol mandate not the best option

A new study by Michigan State University economist Soren Anderson suggests that the government mandate for ethanol is not justified due to low demand elasticity. The researcher found that when ethanol prices rose, demand fell only 12-16%, indicating that consumers are not willing to pay a premium to support the corn-based fuel.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Environmental Economics and Management·DateFeb 13, 2012

Focus on self-improvement, rather than winning, benefits young athletes

A study by Michigan State University's Institute for the Study of Youth Sports found that coaches who prioritize player self-improvement over competition create a sense of teamwork, social skills, and identity among young athletes. The research suggests that focusing on player development can lead to positive outcomes in life skills an...

SourceMichigan State University·JournalPsychology of Sport and Exercise·DateFeb 9, 2012

Moonlighting enzyme works double shift 24/7

A team of researchers led by Michigan State University has discovered an overachieving plant enzyme that can work both day and night shifts. This enzyme, ATP synthase, was found to have a new function when one of its protein building blocks is changed, allowing it to transport energy in the roots at night.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 31, 2012

How the Big Three forgot Accounting 101

Researchers found that the Big Three automakers built excess vehicles without properly accounting for costs, resulting in a culture of short-term gain over brand stability. The study suggests that this practice can lead to harm in other industries with similar characteristics.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalContemporary Accounting Research·DateJan 25, 2012

Chemists unlock potential target for drug development

A team of chemists from Michigan State University has discovered a way to isolate and test the P2X1 receptor in blood platelets, unlocking its potential as a new drug target for diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and cystic fibrosis. The research allows researchers to re-test existing medications by attaching to the receptor.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalAnalytical Methods·DateJan 19, 2012

Scientists crack medieval bone code

Researchers at Michigan State University used advanced DNA testing to confirm the presence of brucellosis in skeletal remains from medieval Albania, suggesting the disease was endemic in the region since the Middle Ages. The findings provide valuable insights into the history of infectious diseases and their impact on human health.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalAmerican Journal of Physical Anthropology·DateJan 3, 2012

Autism researchers make exciting strides

A new study by Michigan State University researcher Brooke Ingersoll found that teaching imitation skills to toddlers and preschoolers with autism improves key areas of deficit, such as eye contact and gestures. The findings come at a pivotal time in autism research, which is detecting behaviors and symptoms earlier than ever before.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Autism and Developmental Disorders·DateDec 12, 2011

Minorities pay more for water and sewer

A study by Michigan State University researchers reveals that racial minorities face higher costs for basic water and sewer services. The study attributes the disparity to the aging infrastructure in urban areas, where whites have fled, leaving minority residents to bear the costs.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalEnvironmental Practice·DateNov 29, 2011

Video game playing tied to creativity

A study by Michigan State University found that video game playing boosts creativity in tasks like drawing and writing, but not other technology use. The researchers surveyed nearly 500 middle-school students and used the Torrance Test of Creativity-Figural to gauge their creative abilities.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalComputers in Human Behavior·DateNov 2, 2011