A study from Michigan State University found that partisan politics played a significant role in local decisions about in-person schooling during the pandemic. In heavily Democratic counties, schools were nearly three times more likely to open fully remote, while Republican counties were nearly 1.8 times more likely to offer in-person ...
Researchers at Michigan State University have discovered a new role for glial cells in the enteric nervous system, which could lead to new treatments for intestinal illnesses. The study found that glia play an active role in modulating signals carried by neuronal circuits.
A new study by Michigan State University scientists reveals that giant pandas do not require perfect habitats to thrive, but rather a balance of suitable and unsuitable areas. The research suggests that conserving and restoring habitat to intermediate levels can effectively manage panda populations and promote genetic diversity.
A Spartan-led team has assembled the most complete picture of the bowfin genome to date, revealing striking similarities between bowfin gas bladder development and human lung development. This breakthrough provides a better model for studying human health and disease, with potential implications for understanding evolutionary history.
A study from Michigan State University's Sleep and Learning Lab found that short naps of 30 or 60 minutes did not show measurable effects on relieving the effects of sleep deprivation. However, participants who obtained more slow-wave sleep during the nap showed reduced impairments associated with sleep deprivation.
Researchers developed a new imaging technique that uses light and sound to detect plaques in arteries, potentially preventing strokes and heart attacks. The technique uses nanoparticles that absorb light and emit sound waves, allowing doctors to visualize the plaques in a non-invasive way.
Researchers from Michigan State University combine social media posts with satellite images to monitor the effects of large-scale infrastructure projects on the environment. By analyzing online discussions and satellite data, scientists can gain insights into how human activities affect ecosystems.
The study creates a reference genome for lake trout, enabling researchers to identify genetic differences between hatchery strains and locate genes associated with morphological and physiological diversity. The genome assembly will aid in developing effective conservation strategies for the iconic species.
A simple blood test during a routine prenatal visit can identify women at risk for preterm birth, according to Michigan State University researcher Hanne Hoffmann. Lower levels of mRNA in the CRY2 and CLOCK genes are associated with a higher risk of preterm birth.
Spotted hyenas inherit advantageous social networks from their mothers, which affect their health and longevity. Higher-ranking mothers imprint these networks on their cubs more accurately, leading to longer life and reproductive success.
A recent study led by Michigan State University ecologists reveals that changing climate has nearly seven times more significant impact on eastern monarch population decline than other contributors. The team analyzed data from over 18,000 surveys of monarchs in the midwestern US, central Mexico, and southern Canada between 1994 and 2018.
A new, inexpensive biopolymer dressing is being developed to heal chronic wounds such as diabetic foot ulcers. The dressing addresses the high cost of existing treatments and has shown promising results in pilot trials with 13 patients.
A team of scientists from Michigan State University is using artificial intelligence to analyze plant genomes and predict the functions of unknown genes. With a $1.4 million NSF grant, they aim to help farmers grow crops that can withstand drought and disease.
A new grant from the NIH is supporting the development of an AI-powered smartphone app that scans speech and vocabulary patterns to catch early signs of Alzheimer's disease. The app aims to provide affordable and accessible self-assessment technology, potentially encouraging patients to seek help sooner.
Researchers found that zebra mussels can increase Microcystis, a type of cyanobacteria causing harmful algal blooms, by filtering out competitors. The study suggests that zebra mussels may be inadvertently helping toxic algae thrive in nutrient-poor waters.
A new study found that LGB Millennials experience worse health disparities than older peers, contradicting expectations. Health disadvantages persist throughout older generations and are even worsened by generational trends.
Researchers from Michigan State University found that more than one in four people in Michigan identify as child-free, exceeding previous estimates. Child-free individuals showed limited differences in life satisfaction and personality traits compared to parents and others.
Researchers at Michigan State University have discovered over three dozen new ambrosia beetle species previously unknown to science. These beetles are named after female science fiction characters, such as Nyota Uhura and Katniss Everdeen, highlighting the importance of biodiversity classification.
Researchers at Michigan State University have developed a new dataset to diagnose broadband availability, revealing significant gaps in urban, suburban, and rural areas. The tool aims to help policymakers allocate resources efficiently to improve local conditions.
MSU researchers have discovered how the skin's immune cells organize themselves in the epidermis to provide proper protection. The discovery sheds light on the skin's defense system, which was previously misunderstood and thought to be random in its distribution.
A new study from Michigan State University found that infants' gut microbiomes are associated with their fear responses, which can be indicators of future mental health. The researchers discovered that specific features of the gut microbiome, such as uneven balances of bacteria, were linked to stronger fear reactions.
Scientists call for stronger focus on understanding sand use and extraction to achieve economic and environmental justice. A new approach considers the interlinkages of sand supply and demand, linking extraction, processing, distribution, economics, and policy to reduce negative impacts.
Research by MSU's Morteza Mahmoudi suggests that Covid-19 vaccines developed with nanomedicine may have different efficacies for men and women due to sex-based differences. The study highlights the importance of considering sex in vaccine development and research, particularly in using nanomedicines.
A 15-year study on wild bees in Michigan found a 61% decline in bee numbers due to extreme warm temperatures in spring 2012, with some species recovering while others declined. The research emphasizes the importance of long-term monitoring and protecting these essential insects for food systems.
Michigan State University scientists are breeding heat-resistant tepary beans to address global food security concerns. By leveraging the genetics of the tepary bean, researchers aim to create beans that can thrive in challenging climates and provide essential nutrients for vulnerable populations.
Researchers at Michigan State University found a possible link between poor sense of smell and a higher risk of pneumonia hospitalization. Older adults with a poor sense of smell were about 50% more likely to be hospitalized with pneumonia compared to those with a good sense of smell.
A new mobile app is being developed to safeguard users of cryptocurrency by detecting vulnerabilities in popular 'wallet' applications used to manage Bitcoin. The app, called the Bitcoin Security Rectifier, monitors for signs of intrusions and alerts users when an attack is happening, providing remedies based on the type of attack.
A study by Michigan State University found that excessive social media use can lead to poor mental health due to limited real-life social support. The research suggests that people who engage in too much social media use often receive less social support in their daily lives, which can negatively impact their mental well-being.
A team of researchers at Michigan State University has developed more heat resilient silver circuitry by adding an intermediate layer of porous nickel, which helps to improve adhesion to ceramic components. The technology has the potential to benefit various industries, including automotive, aerospace, and energy.
A new study examines the factors that influence young women's disclosure of partner violence in their first relationships. The research reveals four patterns of partner violence and disclosure, including stigmatization, shame, and lack of support. The study highlights the importance of raising awareness about different types of partner...
A research team led by Michigan State University found that restoration benefits outweigh detriments from land use history two-to-one. Despite the benefits, restoration could not erase all of farming's lasting effects. The study provides insights for ecologists to target restoration efforts effectively.
A global analysis of protected areas found that only 30% of forest loss in protected areas has been prevented, highlighting the need for improved enforcement and targeted conservation efforts. Protecting forests is crucial for sustainability, and scrutinizing protected areas across the globe can help direct efforts to the right places.
A team of international researchers has shown that the network of nerves connecting eyes to brains evolved at least 450 million years ago in ancient fish, predating animals living on land. This discovery challenges existing theories and has implications for future health research.
The project aims to refine infrastructure, drive sustainability, and strengthen the inclusion of underrepresented voices in humanities scholarship. The expanded collaboration will enable new possibilities for historical research, genealogical discoveries, and a deeper understanding of the past.
A collaboration between Michigan State University, Spectrum Health, and Niowave is testing a new radiotherapy approach for bladder cancer. The therapy combines radiotherapy with immunotherapy, which helps the patient's immune system fight off disease, aiming to improve safety and effectiveness.
Researchers investigate the ecological impacts of solar radiation modification (SRM) on Earth's ecosystems. The study predicts SRM could have complex and uneven effects on ecosystem functions and biodiversity. Climate scientists emphasize the need for continued decarbonization efforts alongside SRM research.
Researchers used lab tools to mimic extreme conditions, redefining the conditions under which carbonates can exist in the Earth's lower mantle. The study expands our understanding of the deep carbon cycle and the Earth's evolution.
A team led by Michigan State University's Pang-Ning Tan is working to make artificial intelligence algorithms more fair and aware of their potential biases. They're developing a definition of fairness that considers perspectives from groups of people, rather than just individual outcomes.
Researchers at MSU used transposons to tag individual strains of Brucellosis bacteria, allowing them to track the spread of the disease in cattle. The study provided critical insight into the cow's mucosal barrier and identified genes involved in severe outcomes.
Research from Michigan State University highlights the racial disparity gap in cervical cancer information and follow-up, citing poor provider-patient communication as a key factor. The study suggests that improving education and using digital channels like text messages can help bridge this gap.
Researchers at Michigan State University are exploring the impact of climate change on plants' efficiency, focusing on photorespiration, a process that reduces plant productivity. By understanding this phenomenon better, they hope to develop new breeding techniques and improve crop yields.
Researchers have found that climate change is the primary driver of changes in global river flow, leading to increased risk of flooding and water scarcity. The study used measurements from over 7,250 locations globally to examine the impact of manmade climate change on river flows between 1971 and 2010.
The IceCube Neutrino Observatory detected a Glashow resonance event, confirming a 60-year-old theory. The event was caused by an electron antineutrino colliding with a particle in Antarctic ice.
A new study from Michigan State University suggests that Midwest corn farmers may not need to rely on more water due to climate change. Instead, adapting through regenerative soil practices and technology can make crops more resilient and adaptable to changing weather patterns.
Research finds that people's reason for swiping right is primarily based on attractiveness and the race of a potential partner. Decisions are often made quickly, with only personality, approach style, or long-term goals mattering slightly.
A recent survey from Michigan State University found racial and political differences in COVID-19 responses, with Black individuals more likely to adhere to public health standards. The study suggests that conservative White individuals are more likely to have noncompliance attitudes towards local and state COVID orders.
Research from Michigan State University identifies four distinct waves of the 1918 flu virus, similar to the COVID-19 pandemic. The study reveals that a spike in cases may occur late 2021 or early 2022 due to remaining susceptible individuals and lack of vaccination.
Researchers at Michigan State University and the University of Hawaii have discovered chemical signatures in corals that indicate resistance to bleaching. The study found that resistant corals host algae with saturated lipids, which differ from those found in susceptible corals with more unsaturated lipids.
Researchers introduce metacoupling, an integrated approach that considers local and global scales to tackle environmental crises. The framework allows scientists to view the world as it truly is, with human actions influencing nature across space and time.
Research by Michigan State University finds that livestock workers are at high risk of acquiring antibiotic-resistant bacteria, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). The study highlights the importance of good hygiene practices and policies in minimizing the spread of livestock-associated MRSA.