A national study found that tiny organisms like algae and bacteria can remove nitrate from stream water, improving water quality. Streams that meander naturally through complex channels are more efficient at filtering pollutants than engineered streams.
Scientists at Michigan State University have developed a new genetic technique that allows for rapid analysis of E. coli bacteria using single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). This breakthrough enables the identification of specific bacterial groups and their associated toxins, which can help predict disease outbreaks.
New MSU study finds that prenatal testosterone exposure may protect against anorexia and bulimia in females, with those exposed to male twins showing lower risk. The findings suggest a biological link between testosterone and eating disorders.
A Michigan State University physician reports the first nationally documented death from acute asthma caused by environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) in a bar employee. The case highlights the need for legal protections against ETS in workplaces, particularly for vulnerable employees with pre-existing conditions like asthma.
Researchers at Michigan State University have discovered that an appetite-controlling hormone named leptin also affects the immune system, while natural versions of certain steroids do not. Leptin supports white blood cell production and enhances immune function in obese individuals.
Researchers have developed a method to measure the reproductive value of female side-blotched lizards, revealing that large clutches are associated with increased survival rates. Male lizards also exhibit improved survival with small clutch sizes due to hormonal changes, highlighting an 'ontogenetic conflict' between the sexes.
A recent Michigan State University study found US middle school math teachers to be ill-prepared compared to their counterparts in other countries. The study, which surveyed over 2,600 future teachers, revealed that the US ranked mediocre in math knowledge and practical teaching skills.
A MSU Ph.D. candidate is tracking up to four wild pandas in the Sichuan Province of China using advanced global positioning systems to map their habitat preferences, providing crucial data for conservation efforts.
A novel study by Jianguo Liu and Eunice Yu at Michigan State University found that divorce rates globally are on the rise, leading to more households with fewer people, increased resource consumption, and environmental degradation. In contrast, cohabitation can reduce urban sprawl and soften the environmental hit.
A team of MSU researchers found inconsistencies in China's certification and traceability systems, which can affect the quality and safety of imported goods. The experts recommend increased government oversight, training for producers and distributors, and improving labelling practices to ensure compliance with international standards
Researchers at Michigan State University used genetic technology to discover a unique pathway in death cap mushrooms that produces the deadly toxin alpha-amanitin. The discovery sheds light on the underlying biochemical machinery and may lead to the development of novel chemicals with therapeutic potential.
A team of scientists, led by Marek Pfutzner, has successfully peered closely at the radioactive decay of a rare iron isotope, shedding light on an exotic form of radioactivity. The technique used a novel combination of advanced physics equipment and digital camera technology to capture ghostly images of trajectories of emitted protons.
Researchers at Michigan State University have identified a new gene, JY-1, necessary for embryonic development in dairy cows. The discovery may offer insights into the cause of infertility in women, who also experience single egg release and individual births, unlike mice which release multiple eggs.
Scientists at Michigan State University's NSCL created three new isotopes of magnesium and aluminum, exceeding current scientific models' predictions. The findings suggest that variants of everyday elements might exist beyond the known stability limit, sparking excitement in rare isotope research.
Historical viral RNA sequences found in native and invasive grasses provide insights into the complex picture of species interactions and implications for modern agriculture. The study suggests that ancient viruses may have contributed to the takeover of California's native grasslands by invasive annual plants.
Researchers synthesized natural and social sciences to understand coupled human and natural systems, revealing complexities in environmental and socioeconomic patterns. The study emphasizes the need for specialization easing up to develop feasible policies for effective solutions to complex problems.
Researchers at Michigan State University have made a unique measurement of an exotic oxygen nucleus, confirming a theoretical model predicting dramatic changes in structure as oxygen nuclei approach their limits. The experiment used new detection tools, making it possible to explore isotopes near the extreme edges of existence.
Researchers have sequenced the genome of Fusarium graminearum, a fungal plant pathogen that causes devastating blight in wheat and barley crops. The study reveals unstable regions of the genome where disease-causing genes reside, providing insights into the fungus's ability to evolve and adapt.
Researchers at Michigan State University found that clones with similar genetic traits outperformed those with varied genetics, producing more flowers and potentially increasing reproduction. The study suggests that a gene called Erecta plays a role in this variation, but further research is needed to confirm the findings.
Permafrost thaw accelerates rates of melting in northern ecosystems, leading to complex impacts on greenhouse gas fluxes from peatlands. While initial degradation may result in increased carbon sequestration, high methane emissions will eventually outweigh this reduction, posing a significant challenge for climate change mitigation.
New research findings suggest tropical insects can be consistently found across hundreds of miles, eating a broader menu of foliage. This challenges the notion that plant-eating insects are picky eaters that stay close to home.
Scientists have developed a new technique to measure the speed of nuclei traveling at one-third the speed of light, enabling the study of rare isotopes. The method uses the Doppler effect to calculate the nucleus's speed based on gamma ray emissions.
Researchers at Michigan State University have discovered how a major plant hormone works to defend plants against insects and pathogens. The study reveals that the hormone jasmonate triggers direct interaction between JAZ proteins and a second protein complex, SCFCOI1, to activate defense responses.
The Great Lakes Bioenergy Research Center aims to develop cellulosic ethanol and other biofuels, creating momentum for a green future in renewable resources. The center will focus on breeding new varieties of bioenergy plants, developing processing techniques, and improving microbial processes.
Two MSU professors, Volodymyr Tarabara and Tom Voice, are leading an international partnership to create new water purifying strategies using membrane-based technologies. The project aims to develop more efficient membranes that can produce ultrapure water, improving public health in developing countries.
A study by Michigan State University researchers found that children's social skills at age three can predict their future academic performance. Positive interactions with peers and parental involvement are key factors in enhancing social skills, leading to better learning outcomes.
Experts are gathering at Michigan State University to identify the nation's research and training needs in fire and structural safety. The university is unveiling a new structural fire testing facility, which will enable researchers to test beams, columns, and slabs under extreme heat conditions.
Researchers have developed a patented pretreatment process for biomass, ammonia fiber expansion (AFEX), making the breakdown of cellulose more efficient. This technology has the potential to replace gasoline and diesel with cheaper, better-for-the-environment biofuels.
Researchers at Michigan State University have developed a new corn variety that can break down cellulose in leaves and stalks into simple sugars for ethanol production. This innovation allows for more cost-effective and efficient production of ethanol, enabling the sale of waste products as an economically viable commodity.
Researchers have built a new model that suggests neutron star surfaces run hotter than previously thought, releasing 10 times more heat. This helps explain the observed frequency of superbursts on such stars' surfaces, but scientists still don't know why they occur annually.
According to MSU scientist Bruce Dale, cellulosic ethanol makes it possible to feed the country's population with less land, as animal feed production can be integrated into biofuel production. This will reduce pressure on our land resources and increase raw material yield from one acre of land.
Researchers from Michigan State and Central Michigan universities develop a new approach to modeling atomic nuclei, reducing computational complexity by focusing on correlations between particles. This breakthrough enables more accurate predictions for the structure of heavy atomic nuclei.
Researchers at Michigan State University found that polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) produced by burning tobacco interfere with cell communication, promoting pancreatic cancer. PAHs do not initiate cancer but contribute to its promotion.
Recent studies show that major changes in life circumstances, such as marriage, divorce, or illness, can have long-term impact on happiness levels. Happiness levels can change over time, and individual differences play an important role in adaptation processes.
A study by Michigan State University found that BMI does not accurately reflect body fat percentage in most cases, particularly among athletes and younger individuals. Researchers suggest reevaluating BMI cutoff points for different age groups and fitness levels to improve its accuracy as a fat indicator.
A recent study found that American adults have a limited understanding of scientific principles, with only 28% qualifying as scientifically literate. This is attributed to various factors, including the lack of general science courses in high schools and the reliance on informal science education resources.
Scientists at NSCL and other labs will describe potential effects in astrophysics, medicine, and national security. New isotope creation technology may have far-reaching impact on various fields.
Producing ethanol from corn grain can release large amounts of nitrous oxide, a greenhouse gas that is 300 times more potent than carbon dioxide. However, careful management can minimize these emissions and improve the overall greenhouse gas profile of ethanol.
Nanotechnology is revolutionizing agriculture by controlling unique properties of matter, affecting everything from food-processing equipment to packaging. The technology has various applications in the supply chain, including detecting ripeness and freshness in produce, improving safety, and enhancing environmental monitoring.
Floods and aging infrastructure threaten the nation's drinking water safety, with inadequate monitoring and poor watershed protection being major concerns. According to MSU expert Joan Rose, combining sewer systems and climate change increase the risk of waterborne illnesses, especially in vulnerable communities.
Researchers found that people tend to prioritize emotional responses over empirical evidence when making decisions, particularly on sensitive topics. This phenomenon was observed in studies examining crime, deer population, and other risks where emotional reactions outweigh rational thinking.
A study found that Americans have a lower understanding of science and evolution compared to Europeans, with only 40% accepting the concept of evolution. This is largely attributed to religion and politics playing a significant role in shaping Americans' views on the subject.
Communicators and researchers are working together to develop effective science communication strategies, exploring ways to identify common goals and potential funding sources. This collaboration aims to create rich, complete stories about what scientists do and why, benefiting taxpayers and advancing policy.
Michigan State University professor Jon Miller is advocating for scientists to take on school board roles to enhance science literacy and educational quality. He believes scientists can bring valuable expertise and strategic thinking to the role, making a significant impact on public schools.
Researchers at Michigan State University have discovered that nanoparticles can stop thin polymer films from buckling and wrinkling, paving the way for new solutions to prevent wrinkles. The technology has potential applications in cosmetic procedures and medical treatments.
Red squirrels have figured out a way to predict spruce tree seed crops months in advance and bet on the most abundant harvests. By producing second litters before bumper crop seasons, they increase their chances of survival and reproductive success.
Researchers discovered a new gene in the gulf pipefish that codes for an astacin protein, previously associated with kidney and liver function. This protein may have evolved to support male pregnancy in this species, a mystery in evolutionary biology.
Michigan State University researchers Kristie Macrakis and Ryan Sweeder have successfully recreated the chemical formula for invisible ink used by East Germany's Stasi. The team, which includes undergraduate students, developed a chemistry lab dubbed the 'Spy Lab' to teach students about catalysis and other scientific concepts.
A global study has found that pinpointing rare bird species isn't a reliable way to assume where other endangered animals occur. The research gathered data on 9,626 bird species, 4,104 mammal species, and 5,619 amphibian species to show that closer examination is needed for conservation efforts.
Andrew Christlieb, a Michigan State University assistant professor of mathematics, has been awarded $300,000 over three years to study questions of plasma physics and develop new methods for solving complex problems. His research aims to improve the speed and accuracy of computer models used in simulations of complex systems.